SOCCER

Ronaldo, Messi, Neuer, and Modrić Among Oldest Players at 2026 World Cup

Asher Hyre Updated: 19 hours ago

The 2026 World Cup will not only showcase emerging young talent but also feature some of the most seasoned veterans in soccer history. Here is a complete overview of the tournament's most experienced players.

While many nations are banking on youthful energy, the 2026 World Cup is also set to be a tournament of legendary veterans. Several soccer icons are preparing to grace the world's biggest stage one more time. According to the official FIFA list, Scottish goalkeeper Craig Gordon will be the oldest player at the tournament.

15 Oldest Players at the 2026 World Cup

Rank:	Player:	Nation:	Age:

1.	Craig Gordon	Scotland	43 Years, 162 Days
2.	Cristiano Ronaldo	Portugal	41 Years, 126 Days
3.	Guillermo Ochoa	Mexico	40 Years, 333 Days
4.	Luka Modrić	Croatia	40 Years, 275 Days
5.	Edin Džeko	Bosnia & Herzegovina	40 Years, 86 Days
6.	Manuel Neuer	Germany	40 Years, 76 Days
7.	Vozinha	Cape Verde	40 Years, 8 Days
8.	Fernando Muslera	Uruguay	39 Years, 360 Days
9.	Yuto Nagatomo	Japan	39 Years, 272 Days
10.	Hernán Galíndez	Ecuador	39 Years, 73 Days
11.	Lionel Messi	Argentina	38 Years, 352 Days
13.	Tim Ream	USA	38 Years, 249 Days
14.	Weverton	Brazil	38 Years, 180 Days
15.	Alberto Quintero	Panama	38 Years, 175 Days

Craig Gordon - Oldest Player at the World Cup

Leading the list is Scottish goalkeeper Craig Gordon. It's no surprise that a keeper is at the top, as experience and game intelligence allow players in this position to compete at the highest level for longer. At 43 years and 162 days, Gordon is the oldest player in the entire tournament, making him a notable figure even before the first whistle.

Cristiano Ronaldo Set for a Record 6th World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo is perhaps the most eye-catching name on this list. The Portuguese superstar will be competing in his sixth World Cup, becoming the first player ever to achieve this feat. This milestone alone underscores the extraordinary longevity of his career. It remains to be seen if he might even make an appearance at a home World Cup in 2030.

Manuel Neuer: Germany's Most Senior Player

For Germany, Manuel Neuer stands out at 40 years and 76 days old. His return to the national team was a major talking point ahead of the tournament, and now he is not only Germany's number one, but also one of the oldest players in the competition. This level of experience can be invaluable, especially for a goalkeeper, and Neuer has repeatedly proven how decisive he can be for Germany in crucial moments, as memorably demonstrated in 2014.

Lionel Messi Joins the Veteran Ranks

Lionel Messi is also part of this distinguished group of veterans. The Argentine will be 38 years and 352 days old at the start of the tournament and is also set to play in his sixth World Cup. FIFA has been highlighting the historic records Messi already holds, and his return to this stage adds another layer of excitement. As with Ronaldo, there is a sense that this could be his final World Cup appearance.

A World Cup of Legends

The list of the oldest players at the 2026 World Cup highlights that this tournament will be defined by more than just young stars. It is also a World Cup of iconic names and grand farewells. With Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modrić, Edin Džeko, Manuel Neuer, and Lionel Messi in the spotlight, the tournament is enriched by their history, personality, and unparalleled experience.