Karim Benzema and the 2026 World Cup: What the Future Holds

As the football world turns its eye to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, one name that continues to spark conversation is that of France’s prolific striker Karim Benzema. At 39 years old in 2026, Benzema’s career trajectory, international eligibility, and the evolving dynamics of national team selection all play a role in shaping his potential participation in the tournament.

Career Highlights and Current Form

Benzema’s journey from Lyon’s youth academy to Real Madrid’s front line has been defined by consistent goal-scoring and creative playmaking. Over a decade at the Spanish giants, he has amassed:

In the 2025‑26 season, Benzema has maintained a high level of performance, contributing both goals and assists in La Liga and the Champions League. His experience and technical skill remain assets that clubs and national teams value highly.

International Eligibility: France or Algeria?

Born in Lyon, Benzema holds French citizenship and has represented France at senior level since 2006. He was part of the national squad that won the 2018 World Cup and played a pivotal role in France’s qualification for the 2022 tournament. However, controversies in 2022 and subsequent exclusion from the squad raised questions about his future with the French side.

In recent months, discussions have emerged around the possibility of Benzema representing Algeria, a country with which he shares heritage. While FIFA’s eligibility rules allow a player to switch allegiance if they have not played a competitive senior match for another nation, Benzema’s 2022 appearances for France complicate this pathway. Any move would require a formal change of nationality and a decision from the Algerian Football Federation.

Why Was Benzema Omitted from the 2022 Squad?

The 2022 World Cup saw a controversial decision by coach Didier Deschamps not to include Benzema in the final 26-man roster. Reports cited a combination of tactical preferences, squad balance, and concerns over off‑pitch issues. While the exact reasoning remains partially speculative, it is widely acknowledged that the coach prioritized younger forwards and a different tactical approach.

Despite this setback, Benzema has maintained a strong presence at the club level, reinforcing the argument that age and experience still play a significant role in his value to a national side.

Assessing Benzema’s Prospects for 2026

1. Age and Physical Condition