Messi, Ronaldo, Ochoa Lead Record 1,248 Players in Final World Cup Rosters

FIFA has released the final rosters for the upcoming World Cup, featuring a record 1,248 players from 48 countries. Among the standout names are Argentina’s Lionel Messi, Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo, and Mexico’s Guillermo Ochoa, who is set to make his sixth World Cup appearance, a new record.

The tournament, which will take place across Canada, the United States, and Mexico, will see 357 players with previous World Cup experience. Meanwhile, nearly 891 players will be making their tournament debut.

The age range among the players is notable, spanning more than 25 years. Scotland’s Craig Gordon is the oldest participant at 43 years and 162 days, while Mexico’s Gilberto Mora is the youngest at 17 years and 240 days. Mora is one of 22 players under the age of 20, and seven players in the competition are 40 or older.

Four nations—Cabo Verde, Curacao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan—will be making their first-ever World Cup appearances.

FIFA’s rules allow teams to make roster changes only in cases of serious injury or illness, and only up to 24 hours before their first match. Any exceptions require FIFA’s approval.