Harry Kane Indicates Intent to Continue International Career Beyond 2026 World Cup

England captain Harry Kane has indicated that the 2026 FIFA World Cup might not mark the conclusion of his international tournament appearances. The 31-year-old’s long-term international future is still undecided, even though he recently increased his national team’s all-time scoring record to 69 goals in 103 matches for England, having scored the opening goal in Sunday’s 5-0 victory over the Republic of Ireland. Interim England manager Lee Carsley did not start Kane in the 3-0 win against Greece on Thursday, and Kane had also faced criticism for his displays during Euro 2024. However, when questioned by PA about whether the upcoming World Cup, scheduled to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, would represent his final opportunity for success with England, the Bayern Munich forward responded: “I don’t think so.” He elaborated: “I think there’s a perception when you get to your 30s that you’re coming to an end, but for me I’m performing at the highest level I’ve ever performed and feel as good as I’ve ever felt, so it’s about taking in the moment.” Kane continued: “I don’t like to look too far ahead and in my career, I never have, the [2026] World Cup is going to be exciting.” He added: “In America it will be an incredible occasion and ultimately it’s about trying to win that, looking at where you are, where to improve and it will be no different in a couple of years.” Kane made these comments during the dedication of a statue and a mural honoring him at the Peter May Sports Centre in east London, the location where he started playing football at the age of five for Ridgeway Rovers. “It’s pretty special to be honest,” Kane informed BBC Newsround. “I played on these pitches as a five-year-old with dreams of playing for England, and I’ve been lucky enough to achieve that.” He expressed hope that “Hopefully the boys and girls will walk past and be inspired by the story of my journey, my life and hard work.” When questioned about the requirements for a statue of him at Wembley Stadium, he stated: “I think we need to win a major tournament.” England aims to achieve this under Thomas Tuchel, who is set to commence his 18-month managerial contract on 1 January, following Carsley’s interim period. Kane, who played under Tuchel at Bayern last season, expressed confidence that the German coach can bring an end to the Three Lions’ lack of trophies. Kane remarked: “He’s a fantastic coach and a really good guy as well,” adding, “I’m excited to work with him again.” He further commented: “I know he’ll bring bundles of energy, and come March we’ll be focused on America and the World Cup, and that’s an exciting prospect to look forward to.” England’s World Cup qualifying opponents will be revealed on 13 December, with the initial matches slated for March.