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The 2026 FIFA World Cup promises to be a landmark event, set apart from every edition that preceded it. For the first time ever, the tournament will feature 48 teams and be hosted across three nations — the United States, Canada, and Mexico — creating what could be the grandest spectacle in the competition’s century-long history.

However, for a generation of footballers who have defined the sport for nearly two decades, this edition will likely mark their final bow. The 2026 tournament offers one last opportunity for these legends to chase football’s most coveted prize before closing the curtain on their extraordinary international careers.

Some may depart as champions, others may fall short, but each will leave an irreplaceable void that upcoming talents will struggle to fill in the immediate future.

Here’s a look at some of the veteran stars who are almost certain to play their last World Cup in 2026:

Lionel Messi (Argentina)

Approaching his 39th birthday, Lionel Messi has confirmed his participation in what will be a record-breaking sixth World Cup. The Argentine legend, who finally captured the elusive title in 2022 when Argentina defeated France in a thrilling final, has since moved to Inter Miami, stepping away from European football to prolong his career in the less intense yet competitive environment of Major League Soccer.

Messi continues to dazzle in national colours, contributing goals and assists that defy his age. While there are doubts about his ability to endure the expanded format and the expected heat across North America, few would bet against him making one last statement on the global stage.

Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)

At 41, Cristiano Ronaldo could become the oldest player ever to lift the World Cup if Portugal triumphs. Despite his unmatched achievements — including five Ballon d’Or titles — Ronaldo has never won the World Cup or even scored in the knockout rounds, a surprising gap in his otherwise stellar career.

Still scoring prolifically for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo insists he has no immediate plans to retire. Portugal’s roster includes promising stars like Rafael Leao, Pedro Neto, and Goncalo Ramos, but coach Roberto Martinez continues to build his system around Ronaldo. Like Messi, CR7 is set to appear in his sixth World Cup — his final chance to add the ultimate trophy to his collection.

Guillermo Ochoa (Mexico)

Joining Messi and Ronaldo as a six-time participant, Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa’s inclusion comes after some uncertainty. The 40-year-old veteran, who boasts over 150 caps, was not expected to feature after limited appearances since 2024. However, an Achilles injury to first-choice keeper Angel Malagon opened the door for Ochoa’s return.

Having played club football across Spain, Italy, France, Portugal, Belgium, and most recently Cyprus with AEL Limassol, Ochoa has hinted that the 2026 tournament will mark his retirement, closing a remarkable international journey spanning two decades.

Manuel Neuer (Germany)

Germany’s iconic shot-stopper Manuel Neuer has also been recalled from international retirement at 40. With Marc-Andre ter Stegen struggling for fitness and questions over Oliver Baumann’s form, coach Julian Nagelsmann turned again to Neuer after his impressive season at Bayern Munich. The veteran will serve as Germany’s No.1 in what will be his fifth World Cup, as Die Mannschaft aim to avoid a third consecutive group-stage elimination.

Luka Modric (Croatia)

At 40, Luka Modric remains Croatia’s heartbeat. The midfield maestro, who led his nation to the 2018 final and a third-place finish in 2022, joined AC Milan after leaving Real Madrid to maintain his sharpness. Entering his fifth World Cup, Modric is close to achieving his 200th cap, a milestone only a handful of players have reached. His composure and class could yet inspire another deep Croatian run.

Edin Dzeko (Bosnia & Herzegovina)

For Edin Dzeko, age 40, the 2026 World Cup is a personal triumph. After helping Bosnia and Herzegovina qualify for only their second World Cup by defeating Italy in the UEFA play-offs, Dzeko will return to football’s biggest stage. With over 150 caps and 70 goals, the former Manchester City and Inter Milan striker recently helped Schalke earn promotion back to the Bundesliga. His long-awaited farewell on the world stage will be richly deserved.

Son Heung-min (South Korea)

South Korea’s talisman, Son Heung-min, will turn 34 during the tournament. While he still has some years left, the physical and emotional demands of leading his national side might see him call time on his international career after 2026. Having joined LAFC in MLS following his illustrious spell with Tottenham Hotspur, Son may feel he has given everything to the Korean cause by the end of this campaign.

Mohamed Salah (Egypt)

Mohamed Salah, just days older than Son, remains Egypt’s driving force. Despite Liverpool’s dip in form and speculation about a move to Saudi Arabia, Salah remains pivotal for the Pharaohs. With support from Manchester City’s Omar Marmoush, he will aim to make up for the disappointment of 2018, when injury hindered his World Cup debut. This could be Salah’s final major outing in Egyptian colours.

Sadio Mane (Senegal)

Turning 34 before the tournament, Sadio Mane continues to embody Senegal’s golden era. The Al-Nassr forward famously scored the decisive penalty to win his country’s first Africa Cup of Nations in 2021 and remains their inspirational captain. With emerging talents like Ismaila Sarr and Illiman Ndiaye around him, Mane’s leadership could drive Senegal deep into the competition one last time.

Riyad Mahrez (Algeria)

At 35, Riyad Mahrez’s artistry still mesmerises fans. The Al-Ahli winger, one of Africa’s most technically gifted players, will have another chance to shine globally after Algeria’s long absence from the World Cup since 2014. For Mahrez, this summer’s tournament could serve as a fitting farewell to international football.

Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium)

Belgium’s creative genius Kevin De Bruyne has endured an injury-hit debut season at Napoli after leaving Manchester City. Nearing 35, his physical durability is under question. Still, when fit, he remains one of the finest playmakers in world football and will lead Belgium’s transitional squad as they chase one last shot at glory for their ‘Golden Generation.’

Virgil van Dijk (Netherlands)

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk, who will turn 35 during the tournament, continues to anchor the Netherlands’ defence. Though some at Anfield fear he has lost a step, Van Dijk remains a commanding presence. The 2026 edition could be his final World Cup, and Dutch supporters will hope he rediscovers his peak form for one last campaign.

James Rodriguez (Colombia)

James Rodriguez, now 35, remains a cherished figure for Colombian fans. His dazzling 2014 World Cup performance remains iconic, and despite frequent injuries, he continues to deliver for his national team. Currently playing for Minnesota United in MLS, James will look to close his career with one more memorable World Cup display — a fitting finale for one of the tournament’s most beloved stars.

Neymar (Brazil)

Neymar’s path to the 2026 World Cup has been turbulent. Brazil’s all-time top scorer hasn’t featured internationally since an ACL injury in October 2023, and under Carlo Ancelotti’s management, his inclusion seemed unlikely. Yet, following injuries to other forwards, Neymar was recalled to the squad, sparking jubilation among fans. Though fitness remains his biggest hurdle, this tournament will likely be his last chance to lead Brazil to their sixth world title.

Harry Kane (England)

England’s captain Harry Kane, aged 32, is in peak form after scoring over 60 goals for Bayern Munich last season. While he could potentially continue until 2030, the 2028 European Championship — co-hosted by England — might serve as the perfect farewell from international duty. That same home tournament could also mark the end for Jordan Pickford, John Stones, and possibly Marcus Rashford, offering them a fitting send-off before a home crowd.