I’ve No Plans To Retire From Football After 2026 World Cup –Courtois

Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has reiterated that he has no plan to retire from international football after the 2026 World Cup.

The veteran player, who celebrated his first cap in 2011, will lace up for Belgium’s tournament opener against Egypt in Seattle on June 16.

Read Also:2026 World Cup: We’re Ready –Alisson Speaks Ahead Brazil Vs Morocco

Courtois’ comments come amid a broader phase of transition for the Belgian national team, with several senior players, part of the ‘golden’ generation, including Kevin de Bruyne, approaching the latter stages of their international careers.

However, the Real Madrid goalkeeper left the door open for a potential continuation depending on Belgium’s World Cup campaign and his personal discussions after the tournament.

“I still want to play for a few more years. And then you have to take care of your body.

“If we have a good World Cup, of course. And continuing to feel the good atmosphere within the group. Afterward, I’ll need to have an internal discussion with the coach, (technical director) Vincent Mannaert, and the doctors,” he added.

Read Also:2026 World Cup: I Am Confident Germany Will Overcome Curacao –Tah

He added that he feels fully prepared for Belgium’s opening match against Egypt, despite earlier injury setbacks.

“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.