Belgium named striker Romelu Lukaku to its 2026 [1] FIFA World Cup squad on Friday in Brussels [2].
The selection marks a critical return for the veteran forward, whose presence provides the national team with proven scoring experience and leadership during the tournament.
Lukaku's inclusion follows a period of uncertainty regarding his physical condition. The striker had been battling recent injuries that threatened his availability for the competition [2]. However, he recovered sufficiently to convince head coach Rudi Garcia that he was fit enough for selection [2].
This call-up ensures that Lukaku will participate in his fourth [3] World Cup. His longevity in the Belgian starting lineup has made him a central figure in the country's footballing strategy over the last decade.
Garcia said the importance of both fitness and experience was key when finalizing the roster [2]. The decision to include Lukaku suggests a preference for a seasoned attacking presence over younger, untested alternatives as the team prepares for the 2026 [1] tournament.
The announcement in Brussels on May 15, 2026 [1], concludes the selection process for the Belgian delegation. The team now shifts its focus toward final preparations before traveling for the event.
“Lukaku will be participating in his fourth World Cup”
The inclusion of Romelu Lukaku signals that Belgium is prioritizing proven reliability over a total transition to a new generation of strikers. By selecting a player for his fourth World Cup, coach Rudi Garcia is betting on veteran composure to navigate the high-pressure environment of the knockout stages, despite the player's recent injury struggles.
