Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has suggested that he may retire from international football following the FIFA World Cup 2026. The 34-year-old, who earned his first cap in 2011 and has 109 appearances for Belgium, addressed reporters at the team's base in Seattle.
Courtois on his future
Speaking to the media, Courtois said, as quoted by Reuters, "I don't know if we should be talking about the future right now, but the chances are greater that I won't continue after this tournament than that I will. I still want to play for a few more years. And then you have to take care of your body. My family is here because this could be my last tournament."
The veteran goalkeeper also pointed to recurring injuries as a factor in his decision. "Over the last year and a half, I've had more little physical problems and injuries, so you naturally think more about the future. I'm considering passing the torch. There's a lot of talent coming through with Senne Lammers and Mike Penders," he added.
Confidence in current form
Despite contemplating retirement, Courtois expressed confidence in his current form. "Yes, I'm very hungry, just like the rest of the group. I feel very good, and I'm looking forward to it. I also worked very hard on my comeback during the spring. The (quadriceps) injury was unfortunate because at that moment, I felt almost unbeatable. But I'm ready to maintain my level now and stay focused," he said.
Belgium will begin their World Cup campaign against Egypt in Group G in Seattle on June 16. They will also face Iran and New Zealand in the group stage of the 23rd edition of the tournament.
Belgium squad for FIFA World Cup 2026
- Goalkeepers: Thibaut Courtois, Senne Lammens, Mike Penders
- Defenders: Timothy Castagne, Zeno Debast, Maxim De Cuyper, Koni De Winter, Brandon Mechele, Thomas Meunier, Nathan Ngoy, Joaquin Seys, Arthur Theate
- Midfielders: Kevin De Bruyne, Amadou Onana, Nicolas Raskin, Youri Tielemans, Hans Vanaken, Axel Witsel
- Forwards: Charles De Ketelaere, Jeremy Doku, Matias Fernandez-Pardo, Romelu Lukaku, Dodi Lukebakio, Diego Moreira, Alexis Saelemekars, Leandro Trossard
