Lionel Messi, the most decorated footballer in history, is lacing up for one more World Cup run. Named to Argentina’s 26-man squad on May 29, the Inter Miami star has joined the defending champions’ training camp at venues scattered across the United States, preparing to captain the team in what will be his sixth FIFA World Cup appearance.
He’ll turn 39 during the tournament.
Training camps, tight timelines, and a milestone chase
Argentina’s preparations kicked off in early June 2026, with the squad setting up shop at multiple locations across the US. Messi has been spotted training at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, Alabama, and Kyle Field in College Station, Texas, running warm-up sessions ahead of friendlies against Honduras and Iceland. Kansas City has also served as a base for the team’s pre-tournament camp.
Messi currently sits at 198 caps for Argentina. He’s targeting 200 appearances before the tournament proper begins, which means those friendlies carry personal significance beyond tactical preparation.
