Luka Modric will participate in the 2026 World Cup, marking his 5th appearance at the tournament.
At 40 years old, Luka Modric will participate in the 2026 World Cup, joining the group of legends who have played in five tournaments. From 2006 to 2022, he was the heart and soul of Croatia, helping them reach the finals in 2018 and third place in 2022.
Luka Modric will participate in the 2026 World Cup, reaching his fifth World Cup appearance at the age of 40. This is a rare milestone, affirming the enduring stamina and class of the Croatian national team icon.
Legend pushes boundaries: the fifth World Cup.
Few players reach three, and even fewer participate in four World Cups. Modric's achievement of reaching his fifth puts him on the list of legends of modern football, while also writing another golden chapter for Croatia. At an age when most of his peers have retired, he remains a pillar of strength and resilience in crucial moments.
From 2006 to 2022: A journey of building a strong position.
The 2006 World Cup marked Modric's first appearance at the world's biggest football tournament as a young talent. Eight years later, at the 2014 World Cup, he became the orchestrator of Croatia's attack. The turning point came at the 2018 World Cup: Modric led the team to the final and received the 2018 Golden Ball, elevating his name to global icon status. At the 2022 World Cup, Croatia won the bronze medal, confirming Modric's role as the heart of their golden generation.
| World Cup | Key Roles/Achievements |
|---|---|
| 2006 | First appearance |
| 2014 | Croatia's conductor |
| 2018 | World runner-up; 2018 Ballon d'Or winner. |
| 2022 | Bronze |
Tactics and influence: Modric is the heartbeat of Croatia.
Modric may not be the fastest or the most mobile player, but he is often the most intelligent on the pitch. His tactical awareness, tempo control, and composure allow Croatia to maintain their playing structure at a high intensity. He shapes the team's tenacious fighting culture, serving as captain and the driving force both in the dressing room and on the field.
Throughout the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, Modric's presence was seen as a morale booster, helping Croatia maintain composure in crucial moments. His influence extended beyond just passing: it was his ability to make the right decisions at the last minute, to stretch the game when needed, and to increase the pace at the right moment.
Still a pillar of the family at age 40.
Despite being 40 years old, Modric still plays at a high level for AC Milan, competing with talents two decades younger than him. This endurance doesn't come from a superior physique, but from discipline, tactical thinking, and the ability to control the tempo of the game.
The significance of the fifth World Cup.
The 2026 World Cup could be the final chapter in Modric's football story. But if it is the final chapter, it will still be a beautiful ending to a career built on perseverance, humility, and genius. A career that has stood the test of time thanks to pure football and dedication, without ostentation.
From a refugee boy playing football in the Zadar mountains to a global football icon, Modric has proven that limits can be broken by willpower and character. Five World Cups are clear evidence of his stature in modern football history.
Notable statistics
- Age: 40
- Number of World Cup appearances: 5 (2006, 2014, 2018, 2022, 2026)
- Notable achievements: Runner-up in the 2018 World Cup; Bronze medal in the 2022 World Cup.
- Individual award: Ballon d'Or 2018
The legacy of "little Luka" is already large enough to live on in the hearts of Croatian fans and fans around the world, no matter how the 2026 World Cup concludes.
