The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the largest edition in history, featuring 48 teams and matches across the United States, Canada and Mexico. The event may also mark the final appearances for several prominent players. A record eight participants aged 40 or older are expected, exceeding the total from all prior tournaments combined. Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon, who will turn 43, is projected to be the oldest player. If he plays, he would become the second-oldest participant ever, after Egypt’s Essam El Hadary in 2018. Other veterans likely to feature include Cristiano Ronaldo, Guillermo Ochoa, Lionel Messi, Cape Verde’s Vozinha, Germany’s Manuel Neuer and Uruguay’s Fernando Muslera. For Messi, Ronaldo, Luka Modric, Neymar and Mohamed Salah, the tournament offers a last chance to add to their international records. Messi and Ronaldo could become the first players to appear in six World Cups. Messi arrives after winning the 2022 title yet continues to perform at a high level despite nearing 39. Ronaldo, now 41, still seeks a World Cup trophy with Portugal. Modric is expected to conclude his World Cup career after leading Croatia to strong finishes in 2018 and 2022. Ochoa may join the two superstars in making a sixth appearance. Neymar’s path includes recovery from a serious knee injury, while Salah aims for a stronger showing after limited participation in 2018. Kevin De Bruyne enters with Belgium’s generation seeking one final major title. Additional experienced players such as Son Heung-min, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrez, Virgil van Dijk, James Rodriguez and Edin Dzeko view the event as a concluding opportunity. Although new talents and an expanded format will be introduced, the tournament may be remembered for farewells to a notable generation focused on legacy and final moments on the global stage.
