With one week to go before the start of the 2026 World Cup, several records are already taking shape for this 23rd edition. The 48 nations qualified for the World Cup, which will take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, have officially announced their player lists for this prestigious global tournament.

In total, 1,248 players were selected, revealing several key statistics and facts.

The oldest and youngest players in the tournament

The oldest player in the competition will be Scottish goalkeeper Craig Gordon. At 43 years and 162 days old, the Heart of Midlothian FC goalkeeper will be the oldest participant in this edition.

Conversely, the youngest participant will be Mexican attacking midfielder Gilberto Mora, aged just 17 years and 240 days. A gap of more than 25 years thus separates the two extremes of the competition.

A new generation already present

This 2026 edition also highlights a new generation of talent. In total, 22 selected players are under the age of 20.

Conversely, seven players in their forties could be competing in what would be their last World Cup.

Moreover, of the 1,248 players called up, 891 will be experiencing the competition for the first time, while 357 have already played in at least one World Cup finals.

A historic record for the legends

Finally, three major figures in world football could set a historic record. Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo, Argentina's Lionel Messi, and Mexico's Guillermo Ochoa are preparing to play in their sixth World Cup, an unprecedented feat in the tournament's history.