James Rodriguez hospitalized – Colombia struggled with major injuries ahead of the 2026 World Cup

Colombia captain James Rodriguez was hospitalized months before the 2026 World Cup, leaving fans questioning his availability for the tournament.

Rodriguez played just over an hour in Colombia’s friendly against France in match 29, which ended in a 1–3 defeat for Copa America runners-up.

“The day after the match against France, the player suffered from severe dehydration, requiring hospitalization for the past 72 hours for preventive and recovery monitoring,” the Colombian Football Federation said in a statement.

Is James Rodriguez doubtful for 2026 FIFA World Cup?

Not for now. The reason for the hospital admission is, as clarified by the association, not sports-related.

“Following communication with a medical center in the state of Minnesota, it has been confirmed that the midfielder is under professional observation for a non-sports related medical condition,” the association said.

“It is important to clarify that this situation is not related to musculoskeletal injuries nor related to the development of his football activities.”

Rodriguez, winner of the Golden Boot at the 2014 World Cup, scored 31 goals and 41 assists for Colombia and led the side to the 2024 Copa America final.

Published on April 3, 2026