On Tuesday, Lionel Messi announced that he does not plan to represent Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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| Lionel Messi announced that he has not plan to play FIFA World Cup 2026 |
This revelation came shortly after his move to Inter Miami and the confirmation of his blockbuster deal. Messi stated that he has already played his final FIFA World Cup game and has no intention of wearing the Argentina jersey in the 2026 tournament.
While there were hopes among fans, teammates, and coach Lionel Scaloni for Messi to change his mind and participate in the 2026 World Cup hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, Messi confirmed his decision during an interview with Chinese sports outlet Titan Sports, stating, "I think not. [Qatar] was my last World Cup. I'll see how things go, but as it is right now, no, I won't go to the next World Cup."
During the 2022 World Cup, Messi played a significant role in Argentina's success, scoring seven goals and becoming the first player ever to score in every round of a World Cup edition since the introduction of the Round of 16 in 1986.
Two of his goals came in the final against France, a closely contested match that was ultimately decided by penalties. Messi's outstanding performance earned him the Golden Ball award for the tournament's best player, making him the first player to win it twice in World Cup history.