Riyad Mahrez retires from the Algeria national team after World Cup elimination

By: Owen Cameros, The Associated Press Posted: 3:14 AM CDT Friday, Jul. 3, 2026

VANCOUVER, British Columbia (AP) — Riyad Mahrez, a five-time Premier League winner, announced his retirement from international soccer following Algeria’s World Cup exit, a 2-0 defeat to Switzerland in the round of 32 on Thursday.

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“There were good times and difficult times as well, of course. That’s part of a career,” he said afterward. “But representing Algeria has been a dream of mine ever since I was young, to play for my country. It’s been an immense honor and a great source of pride.”

He added: “It is the new generation’s turn to play.”

Algeria's Riyad Mahrez (7) reacts during the World Cup round of 32 soccer match between Switzerland and Algeria in Vancouver, British Columbia, Thursday, July 2, 2026. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)

As he walked off the field following the match, Mahrez gave a thumbs-up, then patted his heart and waved to the fans.

Mahrez, who plays for Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia, has had an illustrious career at the club and international levels.

The 35-year-old forward retires with the second-most appearances for Algeria (119) and the second-most goals (40). Mahrez was a part of the Algerian team that won the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.

At the domestic level, Mahrez won a Premier League title with Leicester City and four with Manchester City, as well as a Champions League title with Manchester City.