Lionel Messi’s 2026 World Cup Ambitions: No Retirement Plans Yet, Says Luis Suárez
In a recent interview with Ovación, Uruguayan football star Luis Suárez provided an exciting update on his longtime friend and former Barcelona teammate, Lionel Messi. According to Suárez, the Argentine icon has his sights set on competing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, signaling that retirement is far from Messi’s mind.
“Retirement? Leo Messi has that desire to play at the World Cup 2026 with Argentina,” Suárez told Ovación. “We’re not discussing retirement as a plan to activate anytime soon.”
Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, continues to defy expectations at 38 years old. His passion for the game and commitment to representing Argentina on the global stage remain unwavering, even after achieving the ultimate triumph in 2022. That year, Messi led Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar, ending a 36-year drought for the nation and cementing his legacy with a trophy that had long eluded him.
Suárez’s comments come as no surprise to fans who have followed Messi’s career closely. Despite his age and the physical demands of elite football, Messi has shown remarkable consistency and brilliance, both for his club, Inter Miami, and the Argentine national team. His performances in recent international matches and the MLS have only fueled speculation about his potential participation in the 2026 tournament, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The bond between Suárez and Messi, forged during their six years together at Barcelona, gives weight to the Uruguayan’s insights. The duo formed part of one of football’s most lethal attacking trios alongside Neymar, winning numerous titles, including the 2015 UEFA Champions League. Suárez, now playing for Inter Miami alongside Messi, has had a front-row seat to his friend’s enduring drive and ambition.
For Argentina, Messi’s potential involvement in 2026 would be a massive boost. Under coach Lionel Scaloni, the team has developed a cohesive and competitive squad, blending seasoned stars like Ángel Di María and young talents like Julián Álvarez. Messi’s leadership, vision, and unmatched skill would undoubtedly make Argentina a formidable contender, even as defending champions.
While Suárez’s remarks offer hope to fans dreaming of seeing Messi grace the World Cup stage once more, they also underscore the uncertainty surrounding the future. Injuries, form, and the grueling nature of professional football could all play a role in Messi’s journey to 2026. For now, though, the message is clear: Messi is not ready to hang up his boots just yet.
As the football world eagerly awaits further developments, Suárez’s words serve as a reminder of Messi’s relentless passion for the game. Whether or not he makes it to the 2026 World Cup, Messi’s legacy is already untouchable—but the prospect of one more magical run with Argentina is enough to keep fans dreaming.
