Thibaut Courtois signals possible retirement from Belgium after 2026 World Cup

Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, 34, told reporters that he may step away from the national team after the 2026 World Cup to focus on his club career at Real Madrid, where his contract runs until June 2027. He said he wants to "pass the torch" to the next generation and will evaluate his body, the tournament outcome and discussions with coach Vincent Mannaert and medical staff before deciding.

Courtois added that he is fully prepared for Belgium’s opening match against Egypt in Seattle on 16 June and remains hungry for more international years if the World Cup goes well. He emphasized that any decision will be taken after the tournament, not before.

The remarks come as other members of Belgium’s "golden generation" approach the end of their international careers, marking a transitional phase for the Red Devils.