Will Benzeda Play in the 2026 World Cup?
The name Karim Benzema still resonates strongly in modern football. As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, fans and pundits alike wonder whether the French striker will add another chapter to his international résumé. This article examines the factors that could determine Benzema’s participation, including his age, recent form, national‑team policies, and the broader context of France’s attacking options.
Current Situation and Recent Form
After a prolific career with Real Madrid, Benzema transferred to Al‑Ittihad in Saudi Arabia in 2023. In his first season abroad he recorded 18 goals in 31 league appearances, a respectable return that demonstrated his ability to adapt to a new environment. The forward has remained injury‑free throughout the 2023‑24 campaign, playing the full 90 minutes in over 80 % of his matches.
His scoring record, combined with a high work‑rate and experience in major tournaments, keeps him on the radar of France’s coach. However, the move to a less‑publicised league has reduced his weekly exposure to the European spotlight, a factor that sometimes influences national‑team selection.
Age and Eligibility
Born on 19 December 1987, Benzema will be 38 years old when the 2026 World Cup kicks off in June. While this places him among the oldest players ever to feature in a World Cup, age alone does not preclude participation. Players such as Miroslav Klose (38) and Cristiano Ronaldo (38) have demonstrated that high‑level performance can persist into the late‑30s.
FIFA regulations impose no age limit; selection is purely at the discretion of each national federation. The key question is whether Benzema can maintain the physical standards required for a tournament that typically involves three matches in a fortnight, followed by knockout rounds.
France’s National‑Team Policy
Recent Selection Trends
Since the 2022 World Cup, France’s coach has emphasized a blend of youth and experience. The squad for Euro 2024 featured several players over 30, but also introduced promising forwards such as Kylian Mbappé and Olivier Giroud’s successor, Marcus Thuram. The selection policy favours players who are regularly involved in competitive matches at the highest club level.
Eligibility Rules
There are no formal restrictions preventing a player who has retired from international duty from returning, provided he holds French citizenship and is not under a suspension. Benzema was recalled to the national team in 2021 after a four‑year absence, showing that a comeback is possible if the coach deems it beneficial.
Fitness and Physical Considerations
At 38, recovery time after matches lengthens
