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Lionel Messi has said that he will not participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will take place in Mexico, USA and Canada.
The Argentina icon lifted the World Cup in Qatar last year as the team's captain. He was in scintilating form, scoring seven times and providing three assists in seven games.
Messi was awarded the Golden Ball for his exploits. Many expected him to announce his retirement from international duty after the tournament, as he had won every accolade the sport had to offer, but that didn't happen.
That would have been an encouraging sign for fans who hoped to see Messi at the grandest stage in football in 2026. However, he has now said that the final against France in December at the Lusail Iconic Stadium was likely his last World Cup game.
Lionel Messi recently said (via @AlbicelesteTalk on Twitter):
"I don't think I will participate in the next World Cup. I haven't changed my mind about that. I'd like to be there to watch it, but I'm not going to participate."
The former Barcelona superstar is Argentina's most prolific goalscorer (102) and highest appearance maker (174). He has scored 13 goals in 26 World Cup games; only Gerd Muller (14), Ronaldo Nazario (15) and Miroslav Klose (16) have more.
Lionel Messi explains decision to move to Inter Miami after FIFA World Cup triumph
Barcelona were heavily linked with a move to re-sign Lionel Messi on a free transfer this summer, but that didn't happen.
According to the Athletic, Barca needed to make big-money sales and free up around £70 million in salaries to register Lionel Messi. Instead of waiting for them, the legendary Argentine forward chose to join Inter Miami instead.
Explaining his decision to join the MLS club, the outgoing Paris Saint-Germain superstar said that he wanted to enjoy his day-to-day life more. He said in a recent interview (as quoted by ESPN):
"After winning the World Cup and not being able to return to Barcelona, it was my turn to go to the league of the United States to live football in another way and to enjoy the day-to-day more.
"Obviously, with the same responsibility and desire to play well and do things well as always. But in a calmer way."
According to the Miami Herald, Messi has signed a deal valued between $125 and $150 million, which will be paid over the course of his two-and-a-half year deal. It will include his wages, bonuses and equity in the team. His contract will also have the option to extend it for another year.
