Neymar Confirms 2026 World Cup Will Be His Final Tournament, Eyes Brazil’s Qualification
Brazilian football star Neymar has confirmed that the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be his last, expressing his determination to give his all in what will be his final opportunity to play on football’s biggest stage.
The 32-year-old forward, currently playing for Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal, has faced numerous injury setbacks in recent years but remains optimistic about Brazil’s qualification. Despite being sidelined for over a year with injuries, Neymar expressed confidence in his team’s chances, stating that Brazil will make it to the finals in North America.
Neymar, who has been absent from the Brazilian national team for more than a year, reflected on his upcoming World Cup journey in an interview with CNN, saying he would leave no stone unturned to ensure he plays in the tournament. He also hinted at the possibility of reuniting with former Barcelona teammates, Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, at Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami, calling the idea of playing alongside them “incredible.”
Brazil’s World Cup qualifying campaign has been challenging, with the team currently sitting in fifth place in South America’s 10-nation group. However, Neymar remains hopeful, pointing to the emerging young talent within the team as a source of optimism. With more than a year left before the World Cup, he believes Brazil has time to get things right and secure their place in the tournament.
Neymar has endured a tough spell with injuries, including knee surgery that kept him out for a year. Although he made a brief return to play for Al Hilal, he has since suffered a hamstring injury. As he targets the World Cup, Neymar remains committed to regaining his form and being part of Brazil’s campaign in 2026, with a potential reunion with Messi and Suarez in the U.S. also on the horizon as part of the expanded Club World Cup in June.
