Infantino: I hope Messi plays the 2030 World Cup and we can open the door at any time as long as we still want to play.

May 25th FIFA President Infantino was interviewed on a TV program and talked about his hope that Messi would participate in the 2026 and 2030 World Cups.

Less than a month left before the start of the New Club World Cup, Messi will lead Miami International to participate. This will be Messi's fifth appearance in the Club World Cup after four appearances for Barcelona (2006, 2009, 2011, 2015). Infantino is very happy that Messi can participate in the Club World Cup after the expansion, and looks forward to him staying in top events for more time, which not only adds glory to the event, but also brings joy to fans around the world.

Infantino said: "I certainly hope Messi will participate in the 2026 World Cup. But it depends on whether he is willing. I believe he will, not only because of countless extraordinary Argentine fans, but also because all those who love football will be happy about it. It is rare to have a player like Messi participate in the World Cup. For me, he should participate in the 2026 and 2030 World Cups. As long as he still wants to play, we will open the door at any time."

Infantino's 32 team eight-group new version of the Club World Cup was an important initiative during his tenure as FIFA President. This controversial event was officially announced in the last week of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Although there have been endless debates over the New World Club Cup participation standards, schedules, the increase in the number of strong teams, and the sudden cancellation of Leon Club qualifications due to violation of the ownership regulations... but now it has become a fait accompli.

Infantino defended the New World Club Cup: "As a fan who has loved football since childhood and is particularly obsessed with club football, this event is of great significance to me. It is a blessing to be able to participate in the creation of this new event and give the club official certification of the club's world championship. Football has developed for 150 years, and fans around the world should have a world championship at the club level just like they have a national team World Cup championship."