As of March 2026, Lionel Messi has not officially confirmed his participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but he is likely to play if he maintains his current fitness level and avoids major injuries. His decision hinges entirely on his physical condition—he has repeatedly stated he will only join the Argentine squad if he can contribute meaningfully and not become a burden. The final call is expected in late May or early June 2026, when Argentina’s World Cup squad is announced.
Why We Believe Messi Will Probably Play
Messi’s potential participation boils down to three core factors: his own desire, his physical fitness status, and the support from the Argentine national team. None of these factors rule out his involvement, and together they make a strong case for his sixth World Cup appearance.
Messi’s Changing Stance: From “No” to “Conditional Yes”
After winning the 2022 Qatar World Cup, Messi initially said it would be his last World Cup. However, his attitude has softened over time. In May 2025, he stated he “principally will not participate,” but by October-November 2025, he had shifted to expressing hope to play if his body allows. In January 2026, he emphasized he must be “100% physically fit for high-intensity matches” to avoid burdening the team—a realistic but positive signal.
Most recently, in February 2026, Messi suffered a minor left hamstring strain during a preseason friendly but returned to full training with Inter Miami just days later, easing concerns about his long-term fitness. His commitment to maintaining his form suggests he is preparing with the World Cup in mind.
Physical Fitness: The Make-or-Break Factor
At the start of the 2026 World Cup (June 11), Messi will be 39 years old—an age that requires careful management of his body, but not an insurmountable barrier. He currently follows a specialized training program focused on preserving fitness while controlling his playing time, overseen by Inter Miami coach and former Argentina teammate Javier Mascherano.
Mascherano has confirmed Messi is “in good shape and preparing enthusiastically” for a potential World Cup run, adding that the club will prioritize his long-term health to keep him ready for the summer tournament. While a minor muscle strain in February raised brief alarms, his quick return to full training demonstrated his ability to recover effectively.
Argentina’s Support and Tactical Plan
Argentina’s coach Lionel Scaloni has made it clear he will “respect Messi’s decision completely” and has maintained open communication with the star player throughout the process. The team has already qualified for the 2026 World Cup and is building its strategy around the possibility of Messi’s inclusion.
If selected, Messi will likely play a adjusted role compared to 2022: less high-intensity running, more strategic positioning, and potentially a “super sub” role or reduced minutes in key matches. This tactical shift allows Argentina to leverage his creativity and leadership without overtaxing his body—a win-win for both Messi and the team. Teammates like Emiliano Martínez and Alexis Mac Allister have also expressed enthusiasm about playing with Messi again.
Some Key Details
Messi’s World Cup Timeline: Key Dates to Watch
| Date | Event | Significance for Messi |
|---|---|---|
| March 27, 2026 | Argentina vs Spain (Finalissima) | Potential test of his fitness and form at international level |
| May-June 2026 | Scaloni announces final World Cup squad | Deadline for Messi’s definitive participation decision |
| June 11-July 19, 2026 | 2026 World Cup (North America) | Potential sixth World Cup appearance; Argentina is in Group J |
Historic Opportunity for Messi
If Messi plays in 2026, he will become the first player in history to participate in six World Cups—a record he could share with Cristiano Ronaldo if Portugal qualifies. Beyond the record, he has a chance to make history by leading Argentina to back-to-back World Cup titles, an achievement the country has never accomplished.
The 2026 World Cup in North America also offers a familiar environment for Messi, who currently plays for Inter Miami in the MLS. This familiarity could provide a subtle “home-field advantage” and make his transition between club and international football smoother.
What Experts Are Saying
Most football analysts put Messi’s chances of playing at 70-80% if he avoids major injuries. Former Argentina striker Mario Kempes noted that Messi’s role—starter or substitute—should depend on his fitness closer to the tournament. Ex-teammate Ezequiel Garay added that “any team with Messi is automatically a title favorite,” highlighting his influence beyond technical skill.
Media outlets like Ole and France Football have also weighed in, with France Football calling a potential World Cup defense “the Mount Everest of football”—a feat that would solidify Messi’s status as the greatest player of all time.
What If Messi Doesn’t Play?
Messi has made it clear that if he cannot meet his own fitness standards, he will not join the squad—but he still plans to attend the tournament as a spectator to support Argentina. While his absence would be a blow for fans worldwide, Argentina’s squad remains strong, with a core of young talent (including Enzo Fernández and Julián Álvarez) and experienced veterans to challenge for the title.