Oldest Players Set to Appear at the 2026 World Cup

Veterans Ready for the 2026 World Cup

Only eight players aged 40 or above have ever played in the men's World Cup over its 96-year history. This summer’s tournament could see that number rise.

Essam El Hadary, Egypt's goalkeeper, holds the record as the oldest player to take part in a World Cup match. He was 45 years and 161 days old when he appeared in Egypt's 2-1 group stage loss to Saudi Arabia at the 2018 World Cup.

El Hadary’s mark seems safe this year. Scotland’s goalkeeper Craig Gordon, aged 43, is currently the oldest player named in a full squad for the 2026 event. If he plays, it will be Scotland’s first World Cup in 28 years and Gordon would become the second oldest player in the tournament’s history.

Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal might also join the elite group of players appearing at age 41 or older if he takes the field during what would be his record sixth World Cup.

Historic Oldest Players

The exclusive list of players who featured beyond age 40 includes:

• Essam El Hadary (Egypt)
• Faryd Mondragon (Colombia)
• Roger Milla (Cameroon)
• Pat Jennings (Northern Ireland)

At the 2026 World Cup, Germany’s goalkeeper Manuel Neuer became the seventh oldest player ever by starting in his team’s 7-1 victory over Curacao. Striker Edin Dzeko from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia’s midfielder Luke Modric have also crossed the 40-year mark and are expected to participate.

Cape Verde will feature their first-ever World Cup match on June 15 against Spain, with goalkeeper Vozinha turning 40 just before the game. The tournament also includes experienced goalkeepers like Guillermo Ochoa (Mexico) and Fernando Muslera (Uruguay), both in their forties.