DID Press: FIFA World Cup 2026, set to begin on (11 June 2026) across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is widely expected to mark the final appearance of three global football icons—Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Neymar Jr—in the sport’s biggest tournament.
The tournament has been described by international media as the “last battle of legends,” bringing together three players who have defined modern football over the past two decades.
Reports indicate that 38-year-old Lionel Messi has not yet made a final decision on his participation, but is reportedly undergoing intensive training as he prepares to defend Argentina’s World Cup title.
Meanwhile, 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to feature in his sixth World Cup appearance after Portugal secured qualification, a milestone that would make him the first player in history to compete in six editions of the tournament.
Brazil’s Neymar, now 34, has returned to the national squad following a long injury absence, with global media suggesting the 2026 World Cup may be his final opportunity to claim football’s most prestigious trophy.
The 2026 tournament will feature 48 teams, making it the largest World Cup in history, and analysts say the simultaneous presence of Messi, Ronaldo, and Neymar could elevate it into one of the most historic editions of the competition.