The goodbye of the greats: CR7 and Messi in the 2026 World Cup
The 2026 World Cup marks a milestone in the history of football, with the farewell of iconic figures such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
By Lucía Fernández
November 13, 2026 at 08:10 PM
According to Tuttomercatoweb.
Why it matters
The goodbye of the greats: CR7 and Messi in the 2026 World Cup carries wider implications for the teams, players, and competition context discussed in this report.
Key points
- The goodbye of the greats: CR7 and Messi in the 2026 World Cup.
- The 2026 World Cup marks a milestone in the history of football, with the farewell of iconic figures such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
- Give CR7 to Messi, the 11th of the campioni who will greet the national team in 2026 when they pause.
The 2026 World Cup has become a turning point in the world of football, symbolizing the end of a golden era for many of the best players in history. This tournament, which will be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico, will not only be remembered for its magnitude and the expansion of its venues, but also for the farewell of legends such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, who have been fundamental pillars in their national teams for more than a decade.
Cristiano Ronaldo, who has left an indelible mark on world football, is one of the names that are directly associated with the greatness of the sport. Throughout his career, he has accumulated numerous titles and records, becoming the top scorer in history in international competitions. His participation in the 2026 World Cup will, without a doubt, be a moment full of emotions, both for him and for his followers, who are preparing to see their idol say goodbye to football's biggest stage.
For his part, Lionel Messi has been considered one of the best footballers of all time. His magic on the field has dazzled millions, and his recent success in the Copa América and World Cup has reaffirmed his status as a true giant of the sport. The possibility of Messi playing in his last World Cup adds a level of drama to the tournament, as fans around the world prepare to pay tribute to his career.
The 2026 World Cup will not only mark the farewell of these iconic figures, but will also serve as a bridge to a new generation of footballers who are beginning to stand out. Expectations are high, and the tournament promises to be a spectacle that will capture the attention of millions of fans around the world. With an expanded format and more teams competing, the excitement will be palpable in every match.
The impact of this World Cup will be significant, not only because of the quality of football that will be presented, but also because of the legacy that these players will leave behind. The history of football is full of memorable moments, and the 2026 World Cup will be one of those special chapters where nostalgia and hope for the future of the sport mix. Ronaldo and Messi's farewell will be a reminder of the passage of time and the constant evolution of football, a journey that will always be marked by the legends who have given their all for the game.
What's next
The next phase should bring official updates, squad decisions, and a clearer picture of what this means on the pitch.