Lionel Messi Defers Decision on 2026 World Cup Participation, Citing Fitness
MIAMI – Lionel Messi has not yet committed to playing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, stating he will evaluate his fitness level during readiness with Inter Miami next year before making a final decision. The 38-year-old superstar, fresh off leading Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup, expressed his desire to defend the title but emphasized the need to ensure he can contribute meaningfully to the team.
This uncertainty surrounds a potential sixth World Cup appearance for Messi, who will be 39 during the tournament hosted jointly by Mexico, Canada, and the United States. His participation is keenly anticipated by fans and the Argentinian national team, as his presence would be pivotal in their attempt to secure back-to-back World Cup titles – a feat rarely achieved in international football. The decision will significantly impact Argentina’s campaign and global viewership of the tournament.
“That would be great,” Messi said in an interview with NBC. “I hope to be in good shape and be able to play an important role to help my team.” He plans to assess his condition “day by day” during Inter Miami’s preparations.
Messi stressed the importance of being fully fit before committing. “I first want to make sure that I am fully fit and can contribute something to the team. Then I will make a decision,” he explained.
Despite the pending decision, Messi conveyed his enthusiasm for the upcoming tournament. “Of course I’m really looking forward to it, as it’s a World Cup,” he stated. “We won the last World Cup and it would be fantastic to defend the title on the pitch.”
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, who recently finished the season as the top scorer in the American league with 29 goals in 28 games, reaffirmed his enduring passion for representing his contry. “It has always been a dream for me to play for the national team,” Messi emphasized.
