Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has pulled out of the national team’s squad for their opening two 2026 World Cup qualifiers this month due to a back injury.
Real Madrid confirmed on Sunday that Courtois has been diagnosed with sacroiliitis—an inflammation of the sacroiliac joints, where the lower spine meets the pelvis.
“The medical staff of Real Madrid and the Royal Belgian Football Association have discussed Thibaut Courtois’ back problems intensively in recent weeks,” said the Belgian FA in a statement. “Both parties agreed he is not fit to take part in the upcoming internationals.”
The injury could also cast doubt over Courtois’ availability for the FIFA Club World Cup in the U.S., where Real Madrid are set to face Saudi club Al Hilal in their opening match on June 18 in Miami.
Uncapped Club Brugge goalkeeper Nordin Jackers has been called up to replace Courtois in Belgium’s squad for their Group J fixtures—against North Macedonia in Skopje on Friday and at home to Wales next Monday.
Nottingham Forest’s Matz Sels is expected to start in goal.
