Axel Witsel Retires From International Football After 18-Year Belgium Career

Belgium midfielder Axel Witsel has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to an 18-year career with the national team.

The 37-year-old confirmed his decision on Wednesday, saying it was time to make way for younger players and the next generation of Belgian internationals. 

Witsel made his Belgium debut in 2008 at the age of 18 and went on to win 140 caps, making him the country's second-most capped player behind Jan Vertonghen. He scored 12 goals during his international career.  

He was an important member of Belgium's so-called golden generation, playing alongside players including Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku and Eden Hazard. Witsel featured at four World Cups and three European Championships and was part of the Belgium team that finished third at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

His final international appearance came at the 2026 World Cup, when Belgium lost 2-1 to eventual champions Spain in the quarter-finals. Witsel came on as a substitute during the match, bringing his international career to a close.

This is the second time Witsel has announced his international retirement. He initially stepped away in 2023 after more than 15 years with Belgium, but later returned to the national team and was included in the squad for this year's World Cup.

In his farewell message, Witsel thanked Belgium's supporters, his teammates, coaches and people within the country's football federation for their support throughout his career.

Witsel now continues his club career with French Ligue 1 side Nice. His international retirement comes just before new Belgium coach Mark van Bommel announces his first squad, as the national team prepares for its upcoming Nations League campaign.

Witsel leaves the national team after nearly two decades and as one of the most capped players in Belgian football history.