Guillermo Ochoa to retire after 2026 World Cup

Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa announced that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the final tournament of his professional career. Speaking in a FIFA "Letters That Unite" video, Ochoa said the national team has always been his compass and that, now that his time with Mexico is ending, he no longer sees any meaning in continuing to play football.

He recalled his six World Cup appearances (2006‑2026), 153 caps for Mexico and a career that included stints at Club América, Ajaccio, Málaga, Granada, Standard Liège, Salernitana, AVS and AEL Limassol. He expressed gratitude to his family, highlighted the sacrifices required over a 22‑year international career, and said he will leave the sport "in peace, with my head held high".

The announcement was covered by media outlets in Mexico, Romania, Poland, Belgium, the Netherlands, Albania and other countries, all noting Ochoa’s status as a Mexican football legend and his emotional farewell after one of the longest World‑Cup résumés in history.