A new record has been set with 1,248 players from 48 countries making it onto the final World Cup rosters unveiled by FIFA. Among the notable names are Lionel Messi from Argentina, Cristiano Ronaldo from Portugal, and Guillermo Ochoa from Mexico, all gearing up for their sixth appearance in the prestigious tournament.
Out of the 1,248 players set to compete across 104 matches in Canada, the United States, and Mexico, 357 have previous World Cup experience while a significant 891 players are making their debut in the event. The age range of players is quite diverse, with the oldest player, Craig Gordon from Scotland, aged 43 years and 162 days, while the youngest, Gilberto Mora from Mexico, is just 17 years and 240 days old. Notably, there are seven players aged 40 or above among the participants.
This year, four nations – Cabo Verde, Curacao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan – are making their inaugural World Cup appearance. FIFA regulations stipulate that roster changes can only be made in case of serious injury or illness up to 24 hours before a team’s first match, with any exceptions requiring FIFA approval.