Argentina captain and football legend Lionel Messi has revealed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup might not feature him, as he is unsure about his fitness at the time.

The 38-year-old, who scored twice in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Venezuela on Thursday, admitted that while he still enjoys football, playing at the highest level requires being in top shape.

“As I’ve said before, I don’t think I’ll play another World Cup. At my age, it’s only logical to think I might not,” Messi told TyC Sports after the match.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner explained that his decision will depend on how he feels physically closer to the tournament.

“Match by match, I’ll finish the season, then have preseason, and in six months, I’ll see how I feel,” he added.

If Messi sits out the tournament, the Venezuela game could mark his final World Cup qualifying appearance on home soil, making it an emotional moment for fans who have watched him lead Argentina to glory — including their historic 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar.