Lionel Messi names his favourites to win the World Cup - and it's not Argentina

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Martin Macdonald | Writer

Content writer covering football, formula 1 and movies

Lionel Messi does not believe Argentina are favourites to win the 2026 World Cup and retain their crown from Qatar in 2022.

Four years ago, the Albiceleste won the World Cup for the third time in their history after victories in 1978 and 1986, with Messi, in the eyes of many, enjoying his crowning moment as the undisputed best player in history.

Things are different for Leo in 2026, though, as he will turn 39 in the middle of the tournament on 29 June. Though Argentina does have younger superstars like Julian Alvarez in their ranks, it is an ageing squad and this is likely to be the last time we see the eight-time Balon d'Or winner play at the World Cup.

We say likely because he hasn't actually declared himself to play at the tournament yet. When asked about that by Argentine YouTube personality Pollo Alvarez, he said: "I love playing football and I will do it until I am unable to do so."

Messi probably will end up playing in the tournament as he remains a key marketing tool for FIFA and Major League Soccer, with the World Cup partly taking place in the United States where he currently lives due to his Inter Miami tenure.

As for who will win the World Cup, he says Argentina has "a lot of injured guys or lacking rhythm," which is why he has named other nations as being favourites to lift the trophy.

"We [Argentina] must dream, but in front of us, there are other favourites in better shape. France is again very good and has many high-level players."

Argentina are in a group alongside Algeria, Australia and Jordan for this summer's tournament.

Messi not yet confirmed for 2026 World Cup

Messi has continually been asked if he'll take part in the World Cup but is yet to fully commit himself for Argentina.

"I don't want to be a burden, so to speak," the 38-year-old previously told Sport.

"I want to feel physically fit, to be sure I can help and contribute to the team. Our season is different from the European one. We'll have a pre-season in between, with few matches leading up to the World Cup, and we'll see how things go day by day to see if I really feel physically fit enough to be where I'd like to be and be able to participate.

"But obviously, I'm aware that it's a World Cup, and it's special, and that the World Cup is the biggest competition there is. So, I'm excited, but I'm taking it one day at a time."