Argentina legend and Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has expressed his desire to play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
However, he admits that his participation will depend on how his body feels in the coming year.
Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi led Argentina to World Cup glory at Qatar 2022 by defeating France 4-2 on penalties in a dramatic final.
Messi, who has made 195 international appearances and scored 114 goals, hopes to defend the title when football's biggest tournament takes place in North America next summer.
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Speaking with NBC News' Tom Lamas, Messi said he has not ruled out playing in his sixth World Cup, but will assess his fitness closer to the tournament.
“To be able to play at the World Cup is extraordinary and I would love it,” Messi said.
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“I want to be there, be good and be an important part of helping my national team. When I start the preseason with Inter Miami next year I will assess it on a day-to-day basis and see if I can really be 100%, if I can be useful to the group.”
Messi, who will turn 39 in June 2026, acknowledged age would be a factor but described the prospect of defending Argentina's crown as “fantastic”.
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Since making his professional debut for Barcelona in 2004, Messi has enjoyed an illustrious club career, winning multiple titles in Spain and France before joining MLS team Inter Miami in 2023.
“Miami allows us to live very well, enjoy life and be calm,” Messi said of his new home. “Children can be themselves and live day to day.”
Messi's 2022 victory ended decades of international misery as Argentina won their first World Cup since 1986. Reflecting on that accomplishment.
“It was the dream of my life. It was the only thing missing because I had achieved everything else at club and individual level. Every player's dream is to become world champion.”
