Veteran Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa said on Monday he had joined what is likely to be his final training camp with the national team as the 40-year-old moves closer to a historic sixth appearance at next month’s World Cup.
Ochoa is widely expected to be included in coach Javier Aguirre’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada from June 11 to July 19.
“Putting this shirt on again was never routine…it was a privilege,” Ochoa wrote on social media.
“Today marks the start of my last training camp. But this time I see it differently. With a fuller heart, more scars, more memories and the same excitement as a child who once dreamed of defending this badge.”
If selected, Ochoa will become one of the few players in football history to appear in six World Cups, joining Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in an exclusive group. The goalkeeper has previously represented Mexico in Germany 2006, South Africa 2010, Brazil 2014, Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022.
Ochoa also recently hinted that the upcoming tournament could mark the end of his playing career. In an interview with Mexican television channel TUDN last month, the veteran goalkeeper said it could be the end for me after the World Cup as he prepares for what is expected to be his final season in professional football.
“I’ve had unforgettable nights, endless games, anthems that still give me goosebumps, and moments that changed my life forever,” Ochoa wrote.
“And yet every time Mexico calls, something inside me starts again.
Currently playing for AEL Limassol in Cyprus, Ochoa remains one of Mexico’s most recognizable footballers after a string of memorable performances on the World Cup stage.
He produced one of the most impressive goalkeeping displays at the 2014 World Cup with a remarkable string of saves against the Brazil national football team in the group stage, while also denying Robert Lewandowski from the penalty spot during Mexico’s clash with Poland at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Mexico will continue their preparations for the tournament with friendlies against Ghana on May 22, Australia on May 30 and Serbia on June 4.
The co-hosts will begin their World Cup campaign against South Africa in Group A on June 11.
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Issued by:
Saurabh Kumar
Published on:
May 12, 2026 1:37 PM IST
