Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has revealed that the 2026 World Cup could be his final tournament with the national team.
The 34-year-old, who has earned 109 caps since making his international debut in 2011, admitted he is seriously considering stepping away from Belgium duty after the competition in Canada, Mexico and the United States.
“I still want to play for a few more years, but you have to take care of your body,” Courtois said. “The chances are greater that I won’t continue after this tournament than that I will.”
The Real Madrid shot-stopper said the presence of his family at the tournament has made the occasion even more special, knowing it could be his last major event with Belgium.
However, Courtois left the door open for a possible extension, saying his decision could depend on Belgium’s World Cup campaign and future discussions with the coaching staff and medical team.
The veteran goalkeeper also pointed to recent injury struggles and the benefits of missing some international breaks under former coach Domenico Tedesco as factors influencing his thinking.
“In the last year and a half, I’ve had more small physical problems and injuries, so naturally you think more about the future,” he said.
Courtois added that Belgium have promising young goalkeepers ready to step up, naming Senne Lammens and Mike Penders as potential successors.
For now, though, his focus remains firmly on the World Cup, with Belgium set to begin their Group G campaign against Egypt before facing Iran and New Zealand.
“I feel very good and I’m looking forward to it,” said Courtois. “I’m ready to maintain my level and stay focused.”
