Ronaldo and Messi set to make sixth FIFA World Cup appearance in 2026 edition

Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo and Argentina’s Lionel Messi have officially been named in their respective squads for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Their inclusion will make both stars' sixth consecutive appearance in World Cup editions, making them both the first players in football history to achieve such a milestone.

On Tuesday, Ronaldo was officially named to Portugal’s roster for the 2026 FIFA World cup, making the 41-year-old star make his sixth appearance at the tournament. He has played 226 matches and scored 143 goals for the Portugal national team, holding the record to score goals in all five World Cup appearances. 

He helped Portugal to win the 2016 European Championship and two UEFA Nations League titles (2019, 2025). While participating in the recent edition, it will offer him another opportunity to clinch his maiden FIFA World Cup trophy. 

On the other hand, Lionel Messi has played 198 matches and scored 116 goals for the Argentina national team. He is also the only player in history to win the FIFA World Cup Golden Ball twice in the 2014 and 2025 edition.

He helped Argentina to win the 2022 FIFA World Cup, two Copa America titles (2021, 2024). Following his name surfaced in Argentina's roster, he has the chance to defend and can become the third team to defend the title in FIFA World Cup history.

There have been four football players named in five editions of the world cup such as German footballer Lothar Matthäus and Mexican footballers like Rafael Marquez, Andres Guardado, and Antonio Carbajal.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will kick off from June 11 and continue til July 19, 2026 across  Mexico, Canada, and the USA.