Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are expected to play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup starting Thursday, June 11 [3].
The presence of both athletes represents a rare opportunity for fans to see the two most decorated players of their generation compete in a single tournament for a final time.
This event marks the sixth edition of the FIFA World Cup [1]. The tournament has expanded to feature 48 teams [2], a significant increase from previous iterations of the competition.
Messi enters the tournament with the goal of adding a fourth World Cup title to his record after winning in 2022 [4]. For Ronaldo, the motivation is different, as he continues to seek his first World Cup title [4].
While some reports describe the players as set to compete, other sources suggest their participation is likely rather than certain [5, 6]. This uncertainty stems from the players' ages and the physical demands of the expanded tournament format.
Both athletes are viewed as entering the final chapter of their international careers [4]. The possibility of a direct matchup between Argentina and Portugal remains a primary point of interest for global audiences [6].
Despite the speculation regarding their longevity, the tournament's structure and the players' current ambitions suggest they remain focused on the June 11 opening match [3].
“Messi wants to add a fourth World Cup after winning in 2022”
The inclusion of Messi and Ronaldo in the 2026 tournament serves as a bridge between the era of individual dominance and the new, expanded format of international football. Their participation ensures maximum global viewership and commercial viability for the sixth edition of the event, regardless of whether they are in their physical prime.
