Patrik Schick retires from Czechia after World Cup exit

Czech striker Patrik Schick has announced his immediate retirement from international football, ending a decade-long career with the national team just hours after its elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 30-year-old Bayer Leverkusen forward made the announcement on June 25, following his country's 3-0 defeat to co-host Mexico in Mexico City the previous day.

The loss confirmed Czechia's exit from the tournament, having finished at the bottom of Group A with only one point from three matches. Schick, who came on as a substitute in that final group game, stated that his decision was not impulsive but had been considered for some time. In a statement posted on social media, he said, "Today, my national team chapter is coming to an end."

Schick retires having earned 56 caps and scored 26 goals for his country since his debut in a friendly against Malta in May 2016. His international career was highlighted by his performance at the pandemic-delayed UEFA Euro 2020 tournament, where he was the joint top scorer with five goals, alongside Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo. One of those goals, a stunning long-range strike from near the halfway line against Scotland, was voted the...