Lionel Messi is currently training with the Argentina national team as they prepare for their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, began on June 11, 2026. Argentina's first group stage match is scheduled for June 15, 2026, against an opponent yet to be confirmed in official sources.
Messi, who turned 39 on June 24, 2025, is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time. He led Argentina to victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, scoring a hat-trick in the final against France. His current form and fitness are key to Argentina's hopes of defending their title.
According to recent reports from sports media, Messi has been participating in full training sessions with the squad in their base camp in the United States. The team is focused on replicating their 2022 success, with Messi serving as both captain and talisman. No official statements from the Argentine Football Association (AFA) have been released regarding his specific condition, but his presence in training suggests he is in peak physical shape.
