Oldest Players in World Cup History: All-Time Records

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In the 96-year history of the men’s FIFA World Cup, only seven players have ever stepped onto the pitch at the age of 40 or older. However, that exclusive list is poised for a potential expansion, with at least five veteran stars currently in the mix for the upcoming tournament.

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The current benchmark for longevity belongs to Egyptian goalkeeper Essam El Hadary. He famously set the record as the oldest player in World Cup history at 45 years and 161 days old. El Hadary claimed this milestone during a 2018 group stage match against Saudi Arabia, shattering the previous record by more than two years.

To date, the ten oldest players to ever appear in a World Cup match have all been at least 39 and a half years old. As the next tournament approaches, several aging icons are looking to etch their names into the history books.

Scottish goalkeeper Craig Gordon, at 43 years old, is currently the oldest player named in a squad for this year’s edition. Should he see action—marking Scotland’s first World Cup appearance in 28 years—the Hearts keeper would immediately become the second-oldest player in the history of the tournament.

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo, now 41, also has the opportunity to join the elite group of players who have competed at age 41 or older. If he takes the field, he will not only reach this prestigious milestone but also make a record-breaking sixth World Cup appearance. Historically, only El Hadary, Faryd Mondragon, Roger Milla, and Pat Jennings have managed to play at that age.

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The defensive line may also see a historic addition, as 39-year-old Japanese defender Yuto Nagatomo stands to enter the list of the tournament’s oldest players if he secures playing time in 2026. They join a list of other notable 40-year-olds expected to feature, including Bosnian striker Edin Dzeko, German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, and Croatian midfield maestro Luka Modric. Additionally, Cape Verdean goalkeeper Vozinha will turn 40 before his nation’s opening match, keeping him firmly in contention for this historic feat.

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The 10 Oldest Players in World Cup History

  1. Essam El Hadary – Egypt vs. Saudi Arabia (June 25, 2018) – 45 years, 161 days
  2. Faryd Mondragon – Colombia vs. Japan (June 24, 2014) – 43 years, 3 days
  3. Roger Milla – Cameroon vs. Russia (June 28, 1994) – 42 years, 39 days
  4. Pat Jennings – Northern Ireland vs. Brazil (June 12, 1986) – 41 years, 0 days
  5. Peter Shilton – England vs. Italy (July 7, 1990) – 40 years, 292 days
  6. Dino Zoff – Italy vs. West Germany (July 11, 1982) – 40 years, 133 days
  7. Ali Boumnijel – Tunisia vs. Ukraine (June 23, 2006) – 40 years, 71 days
  8. Jim Leighton – Scotland vs. Morocco (June 23, 1998) – 39 years, 334 days
  9. David James – England vs. Germany (June 27, 2010) – 39 years, 330 days
  10. Atiba Hutchinson – Canada vs. Morocco (December 1, 2022) – 39 years, 296 days
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Summary

In the 96-year history of the men’

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