Oldest Players Set to Appear at the 2026 World Cup

Veterans of the World Cup: Who Are the Oldest Participants?

Only eight men aged 40 or older have played in World Cup matches over the past 96 years, but this summer’s tournament might see more join their ranks. Essam El Hadary, Egypt's goalkeeper, holds the record for the oldest player ever to take part in a World Cup game, playing at 45 years and 161 days old during the 2018 competition. His appearance came in a group stage match against Saudi Arabia, which Egypt lost 2-1.

This record seems unlikely to be broken in 2026. The oldest player named in a full squad so far is Scotland’s goalkeeper Craig Gordon, aged 43. If he plays, he will become the second-oldest player in World Cup history. Scotland’s return to the World Cup after 28 years adds a special note to his potential appearance.

Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal’s captain, might also feature if selected. At 41, he would join the small group of players who have appeared at the World Cup beyond that age, marking his sixth World Cup participation.

Notable Veterans Past 40

The only other players to have appeared beyond 40 include former Colombia goalkeeper Faryd Mondragon, Cameroon's legendary forward Roger Milla, and Northern Ireland’s famous keeper Pat Jennings.

At the 2026 event, Manuel Neuer made history by becoming the first player aged 40 or above to appear for Germany. He started in a commanding 7-1 win over Curacao, ranking as the seventh oldest player in World Cup history.

Other players likely to take part after turning 40 include Bosnia and Herzegovina’s striker Edin Dzeko and Croatia’s midfielder Luke Modric. Cape Verde’s goalkeeper Vozinha will reach 40 just before his nation’s debut match against Spain on 15 June.

Veteran goalkeepers Guillermo Ochoa from Mexico and Fernando Muslera of Uruguay, both in their forties, have also secured spots in their national squads.