Veterans Messi, Ronaldo among players set for sixth World Cup in 2026
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 3, 2026, 6:39 AM
Last updated Jun 3, 2026
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are preparing for their sixth World Cup in 2026, both nearing 40 years old. While Messi will turn 39 during the tournament, Ronaldo is already 41. This tournament continues a trend of older players participating at high levels, influenced by advancements in sports science and continued demand from football associations. Other notable veterans include Luka Modric, N'Golo Kante, and Jordan Henderson, who also aim to leave significant legacies. The tournament is notable for having many players extending their careers beyond typical retirement age.
- •Messi and Ronaldo both return for their sixth World Cup.
- •Messi will turn 39 during the tournament, Ronaldo is already 41.
- •Luka Modric is expected to earn his 200th cap in the USA.
- •Over 20 players, including Neymar and N'Golo Kante, are over 35.
- •The tournament reflects the changing nature of player longevity in soccer.
- 6:39 AMYahoo Sports — Why Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and the rest of the World Cup’s old guard just can’t say goodbye
"A combination of factors means that plenty of players are ploughing on towards, or beyond, 40 – and could play huge roles at this summer’s tournament
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
MLS•Aug 31, 2026, 8:01 PM🎥 Messi hits four, Inter Miami thrash CF Montréal with an indecent score!
MLS•Aug 31, 2026, 5:56 PMTeam of the Matchday: Messi makes magic, Cavan crafts history
MLS•Aug 31, 2026, 4:11 PMVote for Goal of the Matchday – MLS Matchday 23- MLS•Aug 30, 2026, 3:24 AMBond posts 6th clean sheet in last seven starts as Dynamo play Earthquakes to 0-0 draw
- MLS•Aug 30, 2026, 3:00 AMTyrese Spicer scores in stoppage time to rally Orlando City to 3-3 draw with Minnesota United
SoccerMLS•Aug 30, 2026, 2:44 AMA flurry of three goals helps Minnesota United to 3-3 draw