Vestergaard retires from Denmark duty after 59 caps, says timing feels right
Jannik Vestergaard has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a Denmark career that spanned more than a decade and included 59 appearances.
The 33-year-old Leicester City defender said the decision followed careful consideration, describing it as the right moment to step aside.
“I have thought a lot about it, and I have always wanted to stop at the right time. For me, it feels natural now,” Vestergaard said in an interview with Politiken.
Denmark coach Brian Riemer paid tribute to the centre back’s influence, highlighting both his leadership and consistency on the pitch.
Riemer pointed to Denmark’s run to the semi finals of UEFA Euro 2020 as a defining chapter in Vestergaard’s international career. He also recalled the team’s Nations League win over Portugal in 2025, where Vestergaard played a key defensive role.
According to Riemer, Vestergaard delivered a standout performance in that match at Parken Stadium, effectively neutralising Cristiano Ronaldo in a 1-0 victory.
Vestergaard’s final months with the national team were disrupted by injury. A groin operation ruled him out of Denmark’s World Cup playoff matches in March, including the decisive defeat away to Czech Republic.
With Denmark falling short of qualification and a new generation emerging in the squad, Vestergaard said he no longer sees himself as part of the team’s long term project heading toward UEFA Euro 2028.
He was also involved in earlier qualifying matches against Belarus and Scotland, where Denmark missed opportunities to secure a place at the upcoming World Cup.
Reflecting on his international career, Vestergaard described representing Denmark as the greatest honour of his professional life. Since making his debut in 2013, he has been a regular presence in the national setup, combining physical presence with defensive reliability.
His decision closes a significant chapter for Denmark, as the team continues its transition toward a younger squad.