Let’s do some quick math—don’t worry, I’ll use my fingers. The World Cup starts in June 2026. Modric was born in September 1985. That means he’ll be 40 years, 9 months old. That’s older than most coaches. It’s older than my dad’s car.
But here’s the kicker: age is just a number when your engine runs on magic. Look at his stats for Real Madrid this season. He still runs more than guys half his age. He still dictates tempo like a conductor at a philharmonic. The only thing that’s aged is his haircut—and even that is timeless.
So, is it likely? I’d say it’s more likely than you winning the lottery. The Croatian Football Federation has already said they’ll “leave the door open” for him. That’s football-speak for “please, Luka, we’re begging you, don’t retire.”
What Could Stop Him? (Spoiler: Not Much)
The only real threat is a nasty injury. Modric has been incredibly durable for a guy who gets kicked every five minutes. But a torn hamstring at age 39? That’s a career-ender, even for a cyborg. He also has a family—and maybe, just maybe, he wants to watch his kids grow up instead of chasing a ball around humid stadiums in Mexico.
World Cup 2026: Veteran midfielder Luka Modric named in Croatia squad
But then you watch him play. He’s out there smiling, doing stepovers, and controlling the game like he’s playing FIFA on beginner mode. He clearly loves this. Why would he stop?
Here’s my hot take: Yes, Modric will play in the 2026 World Cup. He’ll be 40. He’ll be slower. But he’ll still be the smartest player on the pitch. It won’t be a victory lap—it’ll be a masterclass in how to age gracefully while still kicking everyone’s butt.
