The 2026 World Cup likely marks the end of an era. According to Zdfheute, numerous superstars are facing their last World Cup appearance. Besides Lionel Messi (Argentina), Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal), and Neymar (Brazil), Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium) and Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa have also announced this will be their final tournament.
Ochoa, at 40, is playing in his sixth World Cup, tying Ronaldo and Messi. The goalkeeper became an icon in 2014 and returned to the team after an injury to Luis Malagón. Romelu Lukaku (33) and Luka Modric (39) are also preparing for what is likely their last World Cup. Of the more than 1,200 registered athletes, a significant number have already reached the age of 40, making participation in 2030 highly unlikely.
Source: www.zdfheute.de
