Argentine football legend and Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has revealed his plans regarding participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Argentina.
The Argentine national team will compete in the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, aiming to defend the title it won in 2022 under Messi’s leadership.
Numerous reports have cast doubt on Messi’s participation due to his age but his contract extension with Inter Miami until 2028 has reopened the door for a possible appearance.
In an interview with NBC, Messi said: “Honestly, yes, it would be extraordinary to play in another World Cup. I want to be physically fit and play an important role with my national team.”
He clarified his stance on the decision, stating: “I’ll see if I’m 100% ready—if I can help the team and the national side. Then I’ll decide.”
However, Messi’s comments indicated a clear desire and plan to be part of the tournament: “Of course, I really want to. It’s the World Cup. Being able to defend this title again would be amazing.”
Messi made history in the 2022 World Cup by becoming the first player ever to win the Golden Ball (Best Player award) twice, having also earned it in 2014 when Argentina lost 1–0 to Germany in the final.
Throughout his World Cup career from 2006 to 2022, Messi has played 26 matches, scoring 13 goals and providing 8 assists.
The Argentine star also has the chance to become the all-time top scorer in World Cup history, he needs just four more goals to surpass Germany’s Miroslav Klose, who holds the record with 16 goals.
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