Betagte Profis: Die Oldies der Fußball-WM 2026
At least six players aged 38 or older are set to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking their potential final appearances in the tournament. The event, to be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, will feature veteran stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Manuel Neuer, who are poised to play pivotal roles despite their advanced ages.
Who Are the Key Veteran Players in the 2026 World Cup?
Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, is among the most prominent figures in the 2026 World Cup. The Portuguese forward, who recently secured his first Saudi Pro League title with Al-Nassr, has been cleared to play in the tournament after a disciplinary incident during the qualifying phase. Ronaldo, competing in his sixth World Cup, aims to finally win the trophy after previous near-misses. According to FIFA records, he has appeared in five previous editions of the tournament, making his 2026 participation a historic milestone.
Lionel Messi, 38, will also feature as a key player for Argentina, the 2022 World Cup champions. Messi’s participation in the 2026 tournament will mark his sixth World Cup appearance, tying him with Ronaldo. The Argentine star, currently with Inter Miami, has been a consistent performer for his national team, with his most recent World Cup victory in Qatar 2022. His role as a leader and playmaker remains critical for Argentina’s ambitions.
What Are the Age Records for World Cup Players?
The oldest player in World Cup history is Egypt’s Essam El Hadary, who played at 45 during the 2018 tournament. However, the 2026 edition will not see a record broken, as the oldest participant will be Scotland’s Craig Gordon, 43. Gordon, a goalkeeper, is set to make his World Cup debut, highlighting the continued presence of experienced players in the competition.
Germany’s Manuel Neuer, 39, is another veteran set to participate. The goalkeeper, who returned to the national team after a brief retirement in 2024, has been a central figure for the German squad. His comeback was controversial, as coach Julian Nagelsmann initially favored Oliver Baumann, but Neuer was eventually named the starting goalkeeper. Neuer’s experience and leadership are expected to be vital for Germany’s campaign.
Why Are These Players Still Relevant in 2026?
The inclusion of older players in the 2026 World Cup underscores their enduring influence on their respective teams. Ronaldo and Messi, despite their ages, remain integral to their national teams due to their technical skills, leadership, and goal-scoring prowess. Neuer’s return highlights the value of veteran goalkeepers in high-pressure tournaments, where experience can be a decisive factor.
According to a FIFA analysis, veteran players often contribute to team stability and mentorship, particularly in tournaments where younger squad members are still developing. Their presence can also inspire younger players and provide a sense of continuity for fans.
What Are the Implications of Their Participation?
The participation of older players in 2026 raises questions about the long-term sustainability of their careers. For Ronaldo, the 2026 tournament could be his final appearance, though he has not ruled out the possibility of playing in the 2030 World Cup, which would see him turn 45. However, such a scenario is considered highly unlikely by most analysts.
For Neuer, his return
