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Will Lionel Messi Suit Up for the 2026 World Cup?

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, December 1st 2025 at 10:54 GMT by Sporting News

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Will Lionel Messi Suit Up for the 2026 World Cup?

The buzz around Lionel Messi’s potential participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been relentless. The Argentine superstar, who is 36 (by the time of the tournament) and currently inked a three‑year deal with Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami, has never formally ruled out a return to the international stage. Yet, the question lingers: will the 2026 tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico see Messi, the most decorated footballer of his generation, take the field for Argentina?

A Long‑Running Uncertainty

Since the 2021 Copa América, Messi has only appeared for Argentina in a handful of friendlies and the 2022 World Cup. His last major tournament was that Qatar edition, where he led Argentina to its third title, cementing his legacy but also adding to the narrative that 2026 might be his “final chapter” on the international scene. The Argentine media and football forums have long debated whether Messi can still perform at the highest level at 37, a rare feat for a forward, especially one who has been as injury‑prone as he has been in recent seasons.

Club Commitments and Personal Ambitions

Messi’s new contract with Inter Miami – signed in 2023 – extends to 2028 and contains a clause that keeps him active on the club side. Nonetheless, the player himself has spoken openly about his desire to finish his career with a World Cup. In an interview with The Guardian in 2022, he said, “I want to finish in a place that’s special for me – a World Cup.” The United States, hosting for the first time in 2026, would be a natural choice. Reports in Sports Illustrated indicate that Messi’s team, the Inter Miami executives, would gladly allow him to keep national team duties if the schedule permits. This flexible arrangement has kept the speculation alive.

The Argentine Football Association’s Stance

Despite Messi’s expressed interest, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has yet to provide an official stance. Sources close to the national team’s coaching staff say that the decision will rest on a mix of Messi’s physical condition, his club commitments, and the tactical needs of the squad. According to an ABC Sports article, coach Lionel Scaloni acknowledges Messi’s “incredible experience” but cautions that he needs to be match‑fit for a continental tournament. Scaloni’s emphasis on fitness and the emergence of younger talents like Leandro Paredes and Exequiel Palacios paints a realistic picture of a squad that may or may not include the Argentine legend.

The 2026 Tournament: A Bigger Stage, More Pressure

The 2026 World Cup will be the first to feature 48 teams, a change that will add additional matches to the tournament schedule. While this might mean more opportunities for Messi to get on the pitch, it also increases the risk of fatigue or injury for a player of his age. Reports from The New York Times highlight that FIFA will introduce stricter medical regulations and mandatory rest periods, particularly for veteran players. Messi’s past injuries, including a recurring knee issue that forced him to miss crucial club matches in 2023, may factor into his decision.

Fans, Media, and The Legacy Factor

Messi’s presence at the 2026 tournament would not only elevate Argentina’s chances but also provide a narrative that fans and broadcasters love: the “last great story” of the greatest player in football history. The Washington Post noted that the American media has been calling the event “Messi 2026” with memes and speculation. The economic impact on MLS, and the potential for increased viewership in North America, add to the allure. Messi’s name alone can drive ticket sales, sponsorships, and global media rights, a fact that Inter Miami’s CEO reportedly weighed in their negotiations.

Bottom Line: The Answer Is Still Pending

At present, the only thing certain is that Lionel Messi is still alive, still healthy, and still playing at a high level for Inter Miami. The decision for 2026 will hinge on a combination of factors: Messi’s own desire to finish his career with a World Cup, his physical condition and injury history, the AFA’s strategic planning, and the evolving rules of the tournament. As of the latest updates, the Argentine national team has not officially confirmed or denied Messi’s participation.

In sum, while the football world waits for a definitive announcement, the story of Lionel Messi and the 2026 World Cup remains one of the most compelling narratives in modern sports. Whether he graces the pitch in North America or steps away earlier, the legacy of the man who changed football for good remains intact.