Messi to Captain Argentina at Sixth World Cup
Aging Icon Leads Holders to 2026 Tournament
Lionel Messi, turning 39 during the 2026 World Cup, will captain reigning champions Argentina in his record sixth tournament. Coach Lionel Scaloni named Messi in the 26-man squad. Four years prior, Messi led Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar, securing their third title with a dramatic penalty shootout win against France. His legendary international career continues.

