Lionel Messi and Harry Kane may play their final World Cup at 2026 tournament

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is being portrayed as a possible swan song for several football legends. England’s Harry Kane, who netted six goals and hinted the tournament could be his last, was eliminated by Argentina in the semifinals. Lionel Messi, appearing in his sixth consecutive World Cup, is co‑top scorer with eight goals and is set to play in the final. Portugal’s 41‑year‑old Cristiano Ronaldo, eliminated in the round of 16, scored three goals, and his participation may also mark an end to his World Cup career.

The articles also note the Ballon d'Or 2026 nominees, with Messi, Kane, Kylian Mbappé and others leading the shortlist, and the awards ceremony scheduled for 26 October 2026 in London.