Lionel Messi’s emotional farewell in Buenos Aires has sparked speculation about his potential participation in the 2026 World Cup. Despite Argentina’s victory over Venezuela, Messi’s tears and uncertain comments have left fans wondering if they witnessed his final act on Argentinian soil. While he hasn’t ruled out playing in the next World Cup, Messi acknowledges the challenges of his age and physical condition. His decision will depend on how he feels after the upcoming season and pre-season. Meanwhile, Venezuela’s defeat confirmed other South American teams’ qualification for the World Cup. The focus remains on Messi’s future and whether he will have one last chance to shine on the world stage.
Lionel Messi's emotional appearance in Buenos Aires has left fans wondering if they've witnessed his final act on Argentinian soil. The 38-year-old superstar couldn't contain his tears after Argentina's 3-0 victory over Venezuela at the Estadio Monumental, a match where he scored twice. This moving scene has ignited speculation about his potential participation in the 2026 World Cup in North America.
While Argentina had already secured their place in the tournament, the night was undoubtedly dedicated to Messi. Revered by millions, the former Barcelona icon is nearing the twilight of his illustrious international career. The sight of him shedding tears after the final whistle served as a stark reminder that his journey with the Albiceleste is finite.
Messi's two goals were a fitting tribute to what could be his last performance in Buenos Aires. His first goal sent a surge of euphoria through the stadium, while his second, scored late in the match, solidified Argentina's dominance. Only an offside call denied him a hat-trick. Lautaro Martínez also contributed with a header, capping off a comfortable win for Lionel Scaloni's squad.
However, for Messi, the game transcended the score. "Being able to finish this way here is what I've always dreamed of," he confessed, struggling to control his emotions. "I've experienced a lot of things on this pitch, both good and not so good, but it's always a joy to play in Argentina, in front of our fans."
Despite the joy, reality lingered. Although Messi left a glimmer of hope, his words hinted that the 2026 World Cup might not include him. "Same as I said before about the World Cup, that I don’t think I’ll play another. Because of my age, the most logical thing is that I won’t make it," he explained. "But well, we’re almost there, so I’m excited and motivated to play it. Like I always say, I go day by day, match by match, trying to feel good and above all, being honest with myself."
This honesty means Messi is unwilling to push himself beyond his natural limits. "When I feel good, I enjoy it. But when I don’t, honestly, I don’t have a good time, so I prefer not to be there if I don’t feel good. So we’ll see. I haven’t made a decision about the World Cup," he added. "I’ll finish the season, then I’ll have pre-season, and there will be six months left. So we’ll see how I feel."
These remarks highlight the delicate balance Messi faces: the desire to compete in a fifth World Cup versus the acknowledgment that age and physical demands are undeniable. At 38, while still shining for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, he continues to defy expectations. Yet, even for the most decorated player of his generation, there are boundaries.
Argentinian fans are hoping he will push past those boundaries one last time. Messi was the pivotal figure in their 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar, earning the tournament's best player award as he finally lifted the trophy that had eluded him for so long. That achievement, followed by an eighth Ballon d'Or, seemed like the perfect ending to a chapter. His hesitation to commit to 2026 suggests he doesn't want to tarnish his legacy.
However, his tone was more of a postponement than a farewell. Messi is keeping the possibility open, focusing on next year's pre-season as the critical period. If his body holds up, another shot at World Cup glory is within reach. If not, he has already achieved immortality, and Argentina will begin its post-Messi era with gratitude.
Venezuela's defeat had broader implications for South American teams. It confirmed Uruguay, Colombia, and Paraguay as automatic qualifiers, joining Argentina, Brazil, and Ecuador. Marcelo Bielsa, leading Uruguay, will guide his nation to another World Cup, while Brazil and Colombia remain strong contenders from the continent.
For Argentina, however, these details are secondary to Messi's uncertain future. Each international break now feels like a potential farewell, and each goal is celebrated with added sentiment. The player who has carried his country for almost two decades is approaching the end, and the fans recognize it.
Messi's international record stands at 114 goals in 194 appearances—an extraordinary achievement. His impact extends far beyond statistics. He has been Argentina's talisman, captain, and symbol of excellence. That's why his tears in Buenos Aires were so profound: they symbolized the inevitable end of an era.
The 2026 World Cup, hosted across Canada, Mexico, and the United States from June 11 to July 19, would be a fitting final stage. The tournament is designed for spectacle, and Messi remains the sport's biggest draw. But whether his body allows him one last dance on football's biggest stage remains to be seen.
In the meantime, he will continue with Inter Miami, balancing club and country duties while keeping fans guessing about his final decision. The choice, as always, will be his—measured, reflective, and deeply personal.