FIFA World Cup 2026: Messi, Ronaldo set for monumental record; will become first to achieve this feat

New Delhi: Two of the greatest players in football history - Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi of Argentina - have once again etched their names in golden letters within the annals of the 'beautiful game'. Both legends have been included in their respective national squads for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. This will mark the sixth consecutive World Cup campaign for both stars, making them the first players in the long history of football to achieve this incredible milestone.

Will this be Cristiano Ronaldo's sixth World Cup?

On Tuesday, Portugal announced its official roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which features the 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo. To date, Ronaldo has played a record 226 matches for Portugal and has scored 143 international goals. He also holds the unique world record of scoring at least one goal in each of his previous five World Cup campaigns. Under Ronaldo's captaincy and inspiration, Portugal won the European Championship in 2016 and the UEFA Nations League title twice (2019, 2025). However, his illustrious trophy cabinet still lacks one specific piece of silverware. The 2026 mega-event presents Ronaldo with his final—and most golden—opportunity to win his first-ever FIFA World Cup trophy.

Will Lionel Messi and Argentina Defend the Title?

On the other hand, Argentina's wizard, Lionel Messi, is also fully prepared for his sixth World Cup appearance. Messi has played 198 matches for Argentina so far and has scored 116 goals. He is the only player in football history to have won the FIFA World Cup Golden Ball in two different World Cup tournaments (2014 and 2025). Under his captaincy, Messi led Argentina to victory as champions of the 2022 FIFA World Cup; additionally, he has guided the team to two Copa América titles (2021, 2024). With his inclusion in the Argentine squad, Messi will have the opportunity to defend his title. If Argentina emerges as champions once again, they will become only the third team in the history of the FIFA World Cup to successfully defend their title in consecutive tournaments.

Which Players Have Played in 5 World Cups?

Prior to Ronaldo and Messi, only four players in the world had participated in five World Cup tournaments throughout their careers. However, none had managed to reach the milestone of six appearances. The legends who have played in five World Cups are as follows:
- Lothar Matthäus (Germany)
- Rafael Márquez (Mexico)
- Andrés Guardado (Mexico)
- Antonio Carbajal (Mexico)

When and Where Will the 2026 FIFA World Cup Take Place?

This grandest spectacle of football will be jointly hosted by three nations this time around; the tournament is scheduled to run from June 11, 2026, to July 19, 2026. The matches will be held in magnificent stadiums across Mexico, Canada, and the United States (USA).