"I really hope Messi will attend the 2026 World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico as well as the World Cup in 2034. Whenever he wants," said Mr. Gianni Infantino, when interviewed by DSports channel (USA).
FIFA President Gianni Infantino (right) and Messi at the 2022 World Cup
FIFA President Gianni Infantino attended the Copa America 2024 draw ceremony on the morning of December 8 (Vietnam time) and participated in the match between former South American football stars at the DRV PNK stadium of Inter Miami Club, where Messi is playing.
"The 2034 World Cup is the 100th anniversary of the World Cup. So we really hope Messi will be there. We have spoken to Mr. Chiqui Tapia (President of the Argentine Football Federation), and we are planning for the next World Cups.
The 2026 World Cup will be huge, because it will be the first World Cup with 48 teams and it will be a huge football party and I am sure it will be successful. Messi's participation in the 2026 World Cup will be highly anticipated, as well as the following World Cups, including 2034. I really hope he will participate in these World Cups," Mr. Gianni Infantino emphasized.
Messi has just been honored by Time magazine as the best athlete of 2023
Messi recently revealed that he is only focusing on participating in the 2024 Copa America, and then will make further assessments to see if he is capable of playing until the 2026 World Cup. Meanwhile, with the 2034 World Cup, this famous player did not mention anything, although he was very happy that Argentina was able to participate in a part of hosting the tournament (organizing the opening match to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the World Cup).
"By the 2026 World Cup, I will be 39 years old. At that age, it is difficult to achieve, but I do not rule out the possibility that I will still be present. If everything feels okay there and especially if we successfully defend the Copa America title, then I can continue playing," Messi said.
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