The 2026 World Cup carries special emotion as legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo contest a sixth — and likely final — edition, a probable farewell to the stage where they defined modern football for two decades.
Messi: chasing a perfect ending
About to turn 39, Messi has committed to a record sixth World Cup with Argentina. Having crowned his career with the 2022 title, he seeks a dream repeat — this time without the pressure of proving himself.
Ronaldo: the missing dream
At 41, Ronaldo could become the oldest player to lift the World Cup if Portugal triumph. Yet the trophy remains the gap in his cabinet — he has never even scored in the knockout rounds, making this his last chance to write that chapter.
The dream of a final meeting
The big question: will the two finally meet at a World Cup? Mathematically, a knockout showdown remains alive — a clash denied to fans for 20 years.
Is this Messi and Ronaldo's last World Cup?
By all indications, yes — their sixth and likely final edition, lending it a farewell feel.
Follow Messi, Ronaldo and every 2026 World Cup star on Malaab Al-An.