Oldest players at the 2026 World Cup: Messi, Modrić, Ronaldo… the veterans who defy time

The 2026 World Cup marks a special chapter in football history. While the new generation, led by talents from all corners of the globe, takes center stage, several legends continue to defy time. Starting with Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Luka Modrić, who are among the oldest players in this 23rd edition of the World Cup.

Despite their advanced age, these veterans continue to display a remarkable level of performance and remain essential members of their national teams. Their exceptional longevity commands admiration, even if this World Cup could well be their last appearance on the biggest stage in world football.

The oldest player in the tournament is Scottish goalkeeper Craig Gordon. At 43 years and 162 days old, he becomes one of the oldest players to participate in a World Cup finals. His experience represents a valuable asset for Scotland, which is gradually returning to the top of international football.

Behind him, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to write his legend. At 41 years and 126 days old, the Portuguese captain is playing in his sixth World Cup, a very rare feat. The all-time leading scorer for national teams (143 goals), the Portuguese striker remains an indispensable leader for his team thanks to his goal-scoring prowess and exemplary professionalism.

Another iconic goalkeeper, Guillermo Ochoa, is participating in his latest World Cup at 40 years and 333 days old. A veteran of major competitions, the Mexican goalkeeper continues to demonstrate remarkable consistency.

At 40 years and 275 days old, Luka Modrić remains Croatia's playmaker. The 2018 Ballon d'Or winner continues to exert considerable influence on the Croatian game thanks to his vision, technique, and tactical intelligence. His experience will be invaluable in guiding the Vatreni through this tournament.

The list of players in their forties also includes Bosnian Edin Džeko (40 years and 86 days), German Manuel Neuer (40 years and 76 days), and Cape Verdean Vozinha (40 years and 8 days). Vozinha particularly impressed during Cape Verde's historic 0-0 draw against Spain, making numerous crucial saves to secure a memorable result for his country.

Other veterans in the tournament also include Uruguayan Fernando Muslera (39 years and 360 days), Japanese Yuto Nagatomo (39 years and 272 days) and Ecuadorian goalkeeper Hernán Galíndez (39 years and 73 days).

Although he's not yet in his forties, Lionel Messi remains one of the competition's veterans. At 38 years and 352 days old, the Argentinian World Cup winner continues to amaze fans with his undiminished talent. Like Ronaldo and Modrić, the Albiceleste star could be playing his final World Cup matches.

This 2026 edition sets a record with eight players aged 40 or over participating in the competition. This demonstrates that advancements in physical preparation, sports medicine, and lifestyle now allow some players to significantly extend their careers at the highest level.

Despite their consistently impressive performances, time remains an insurmountable adversary. For Messi, Ronaldo, Modrić, and several other veterans, the 2026 World Cup feels like a final dance. A last chance to shine before definitively bowing out of the international stage.

The absolute record for the oldest player to have played in a World Cup match still belongs to Egyptian Essam El Hadary, who was 45 years and 161 days old when he appeared at the 2018 World Cup in Russia. A feat that, for now, remains unattainable.