James Rodriguez retires from international football after 15 years with Colombia

Wednesday 16 September 2026 - 10:52

James Rodriguez has ended his international career with Colombia, bringing the curtain down on a 15-year spell that established him as one of the most influential players in the history of the national team.

The 35-year-old attacking midfielder announced his decision on Tuesday in an emotional message to Colombian supporters. After representing the Cafeteros at three World Cups and reaching a Copa America final, Rodriguez said he was leaving the national side with a sense of fulfillment.

“I leave with peace of mind because I know I gave absolutely everything,” Rodriguez said in a video shared on social media, thanking Colombians for their support throughout his career.

A defining figure for Colombia

Rodriguez made his international debut in 2011 and went on to collect 131 appearances for Colombia. His 31 goals place him second on the country's all-time scoring list, behind former captain Radamel Falcao, who scored 36 times for the national team before retiring from international football.

Among Rodriguez's most significant achievements with Colombia was the team's run to the Copa America final in 2024. Colombia eventually lost 1-0 to Argentina after extra time, ending its hopes of securing the continental title.

His international career also included three World Cup campaigns, in 2014, 2018 and 2026.

The 2014 World Cup made him a global star

Rodriguez's breakthrough on the world stage came at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Colombia reached the quarter-finals for the first time in its history before losing 2-1 to the host nation. Rodriguez scored Colombia's only goal from the penalty spot and finished the tournament with six goals, earning the competition's Golden Boot.

His performances attracted worldwide attention and helped propel him toward a move to Real Madrid, where he continued his career among Europe's elite.

Eight years later, Rodriguez remained a key figure for Colombia at the 2018 World Cup, while his final appearance at the tournament came at the 2026 edition in North America.

A final World Cup appearance

Rodriguez played all five of Colombia's matches at the 2026 World Cup. His campaign ended in the round of 16 after Colombia drew 0-0 with Switzerland following extra time before losing the ensuing penalty shootout.

Unlike his memorable 2014 tournament, Rodriguez did not score during Colombia's latest World Cup campaign.

The tournament nevertheless marked the final chapter of his international career, as the veteran midfielder decided to step away from the national team shortly afterward.

“I always had a clear vision from the beginning: to leave knowing that I had raised this shirt higher than where I found it,” he said. “I believe I achieved that.”

From Porto to Real Madrid and Bayern Munich

Rodriguez's club career has taken him through several of Europe's most prominent teams, including FC Porto, AS Monaco, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.

His time at Real Madrid produced two Champions League titles, in 2016 and 2017, adding major European honours to a career that also included individual recognition on the international stage.

In recent seasons, injuries and recurring physical problems affected his availability. After years playing abroad, Rodriguez recently returned to Colombia by signing for Atlético Nacional.

His decision to retire internationally now leaves Colombia without one of the defining figures of its modern football era.