Algeria's Riyad Mahrez to Retire After 2026 World Cup

Mahrez announces retirement from international Football

Riyad Mahrez confirms his international retirement after the 2026 World Cup, marking the end of an era for Algerian football.

“I'll give everything I have to represent Algeria in the best possible way...”

Riyad Mahrez has declared that the 2026 World Cup will be his last international tournament with Algeria. The 34-year-old winger has been instrumental in guiding Algeria to a fifth appearance at the World Cup.

Mahrez's exceptional performance in the penultimate round of African qualifying, scoring once and assisting twice in Algeria's 3-0 win over Somalia, secured Algeria's spot in the 2026 World Cup. The team will compete in the tournament held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

After the World Cup, Mahrez will retire from international football, citing he doesn't want to play until he's 40 like Cristiano Ronaldo. Mahrez praised his teammates, coach, and fans for their support, saying the team “dominated from start to finish” and that the focus now shifts to the Africa Cup of Nations.

“This will be my last World Cup. I'm not Ronaldo,” Mahrez told Algerian media.

“I'll give everything I have to represent Algeria in the best possible way.”

Riyad Mahrez, who will turn 35 in February, has amassed 33 goals in 106 international appearances for Algeria. He expressed gratitude to his teammates, coach, and fans for their support, highlighting the team's dominant performance in their recent win.

Mahrez emphasized that the team's focus now shifts to the Africa Cup of Nations, following their successful World Cup qualification campaign.

“I thank God for this important win,” he said. “I'm happy to have helped with two assists, but the most important thing is that we've officially qualified.”

Algeria's fifth World Cup qualification came after a successful campaign, building on their previous appearances in 1982, 1986, 2010, and 2014. Notably, their 2014 World Cup in Brazil marked a historic milestone when they advanced to the round of 16, ultimately losing to Germany in extra time.