Image Credit: Rich Storry-USA TODAY Sports

Lionel Messi to play 2026 World Cup? Inter Miami superstar’s statement sparks hope among fans

Lionel Messi will be 39 years old when the Argentina will play as the defending champions in 2026 World Cup.

Image Credit: Rich Storry-USA TODAY Sports

Inter Miami superstar, Lionel Messi has dropped a hint on his participation in the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. It has given a hope for the fans to watch their football superstar in the FIFA event next year.

Lionel Messi will be 39 years old when the Argentina will play as the defending champions in 2026 World Cup. The MLS MVP has given a statement regarding next year’s mega event after Miami’s pre-season win on Saturday night.

Lionel Messi scored a stunning goal through header in a 2-2 draw against Club America. Inter Miami held the nerves and beat the Mexican club 3-2 on penalties. Messi also made headlines with his celebration as he teased Mexican fans for not winning the World Cup trophy.

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While talking to TN after the pre-season game in Las Vegas, Messi said, “We have been doing preseason, we have few training sessions. So it helps us to continue growing with a new coach and to continue improving.”

Leo Messi 🗣️: "The World Cup 2026? Well, as I always say, I’m just starting the year. Honestly, I’m starting it feeling really, really excited and motivated.

"Hopefully, I can feel good as the year goes on and well, it’s important to start off strong to be in good shape when… pic.twitter.com/jSn9uM8Kim
— Messi FC World (@MessiFCWorld) January 20, 2025

The Argentine was asked about his participation in next year’s FIFA World Cup and Messi replied, “I’m just starting the year, I’m starting it very excited, with a lot of desire. I hope I can start feeling well and start with a good preseason, adding minutes to be in the best shape when the official matches come.”

Messi to chase Club World Cup trophy this year

Before the World Cup, Messi will take part in another FIFA event which will be held in the United States this summer. Inter Miami will take on the best teams in the world during the Club World Cup. Messi’s Inter Miami have been drawn in Group A alongside Palmeiras, Porto and Al Ahly.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino announced that Inter Miami have qualified for the 2025 Club World Cup after winning the Supporters’ Shield.

They will also host the opening game at the Hard Rock Stadium 🏟️ pic.twitter.com/CdnPhz1Tp9
— B/R Football (@brfootball) October 20, 2024

“We have a lot of matches beforehand. The truth is that it is a year full of many matches. The Club World Cup is not until June. We have a difficult group as well and we are going to fight for it. We are going to compete, but first think about what is coming, as we have many matches before that,” Messi said when he was asked about the Club World Cup.

Miami superstar has lifted the FIFA Club World Cup three times, all with Barcelona (2009, 2011, 2015). He has the opportunity to join Ronaldo (4) with most Club World Cup titles if Inter Miami win the tournament this summer.

What’s next for Messi?

Inter Miami are on their “Americas Tour” and their preseason campaign will end on Feb. 14. The Herons have preseason matches in Peru, Panama and Honduras. Javier Mascherano’s side will next play Universitario on Jan. 29.

Messi and Co. will kick off their 2025 MLS season against New York City FC on Feb. 22.

Image Credit: Rich Storry-USA TODAY Sports

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A native of Jaipur, Rajasthan, journalist, and a complete soccer and basketball fan, he found the huge interest with basketball by watching videos of Allen Iverson and Tony Parker, but fell head over heels in love with the sport during the Warriors’ championship era (2015-2018). A sports game addict since his late PS1, he’s also passionate about the Eagles, Inter Miami and the Fever. He’s fortunate to have seen all his favorite teams win championships. He also has a special love for cricket and football (soccer), where he is a fan of Royal Challengers Bangalore and Barcelona.