Ronaldo, Messi and Stars Set for Final World Cup Bow in 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America promises to be the final edition for a host of football legends. Although some players will set records by appearing at a sixth World Cup, age and injuries are closing in. Below is a list of those who may be stepping onto the world stage for the last time.

Cristiano Ronaldo – Portugal
At 41, the Portuguese striker knows his career is approaching its end. He has scored 30 goals in 37 matches for Al-Nassr this season, taking his international tally to 143. Ronaldo is the second-oldest player at the tournament, behind Scotland’s 43-year-old goalkeeper Craig Gordon. This is his sixth World Cup and likely his final chance to lift the golden trophy—the only major honor missing from his collection.

Lionel Messi – Argentina
Like Ronaldo, Messi will compete at his sixth World Cup, leading Argentina’s defense of the title they won in Qatar 2022. At 38, the greatest scorer in Argentina’s history has faced injury issues during preparations, raising doubts about his fitness. Nonetheless, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner remains the heartbeat of the South American side.

Luka Modric – Croatia
Having led Croatia to the 2018 final and a third-place finish in 2022, the 40-year-old Modric is ready for his fifth and final World Cup. Despite recent surgery on a cheekbone, the veteran midfielder is still the soul of the Balkan team’s play.

Neymar Jr – Brazil
At 34, Neymar is younger than Messi or Ronaldo, but his starting spot is not guaranteed. His return to the Brazil squad after a 2.5-year absence caused a stir, yet his injury history and age (he will be 38 in 2030) suggest this will be his fourth and final World Cup.

Manuel Neuer – Germany
The 40-year-old goalkeeper returned after retiring to reclaim Germany’s number-one spot. Neuer has played in four World Cups, most notably as a key figure in the 2014 title win. This will be the last chance for fans to see him on the biggest stage.

Mohamed Salah – Egypt
At 33, the Egyptian forward is no longer at his absolute peak but remains his country’s greatest hope. This could be his second and final World Cup for the player widely regarded as Africa’s finest.

Kevin De Bruyne – Belgium
A cornerstone of Belgium’s golden generation from 2014 to 2022, the 35-year-old midfielder still plays a vital role. This is his fourth World Cup and is widely seen as his last. His form is key to Belgium’s hopes of a deep run.

Virgil van Dijk – Netherlands
The 35-year-old center-back is no longer the commanding presence he was in his prime at Liverpool. The Dutch captain will turn 35 in July, and the Netherlands may shift to a younger defense by 2030. This is his third World Cup.

Sadio Mane – Senegal
The 34-year-old forward missed the 2022 World Cup due to injury. Though no longer at his peak, Mane remains an inspiration for Senegal. He stated the recent Africa Cup of Nations would be his last, but the coaching staff hopes to persuade him otherwise. This is his third World Cup and likely his final one.

Guillermo Ochoa – Mexico
The 41-year-old goalkeeper will become the first Mexican player to appear at six World Cups. Ochoa, a rock in previous campaigns, plans to retire after the tournament.