Lionel Messi Hints at 2026 World Cup Return, Says Final Call Depends on Fitness

Inter Miami CF captain Lionel Messi has revealed he remains hopeful of defending Argentina’s FIFA World Cup title in 2026, though he has yet to make a final decision on whether he will play.

In an interview with NBC News aired Monday, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner said his participation will depend entirely on his physical condition and form leading up to the tournament.

“Yes, it’s something extraordinary to be able to be in a World Cup,” Messi said. “I would like to be there — to feel well and to be an important part of helping my national team. I’ll assess that day by day when I start preseason next year with Inter Miami and see if I can really be 100%.”

The 38-year-old superstar added that defending Argentina’s 2022 title would be a “dream come true” but emphasized he will only play if he feels capable of contributing meaningfully.

Messi, who guided Argentina to glory in Qatar 2022, has repeatedly said he will wait until 2026 to decide. Speaking earlier this year during World Cup qualifiers, he noted, “When I feel good, I enjoy it. When I don’t, I prefer not to be there if I don’t feel good. So we’ll see.”

🏆 Stellar Form with Inter Miami

Messi has enjoyed another standout season in the MLS, recently securing the 2025 Golden Boot with 29 goals in 28 matches. He’s also a finalist for the MLS MVP Award, which could make him the first player to win it in consecutive seasons.

The Argentine captain recently extended his contract with Inter Miami through the 2028 season, reaffirming his commitment to the club.

“I’ve always said I’ll base my decision [about playing] on how I feel physically and mentally,” Messi said. “I’m happy living in Miami — as is my family — and honestly, the decision [to renew] was easy.”

Inter Miami, currently leading their playoff series 1-0 against Nashville SC, will play the second leg on Saturday at Chase Stadium, where Messi is expected to start after scoring twice in the first game.

If he maintains his current form, Messi could well be on course to make one final, glorious run at football’s biggest stage — the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.