Window slammed shut by 26? He is pulling your plonker. Absolute cobblers. There are many, many pilots you'll find on this forum (and others) that got their first start well into their 30s. THIS is the reality, so if I were you, I would continue your plan - as it sounds well thought out and you have PLENTY of time.
What I WOULD say however, is that if you COULD complete your training by 26, then looking at the current state, this may well put you into an excellent position in terms of when the industry may be starting to look healthy again in terms of recruitment (indeed it may EVEN be slightly late).
I would ALSO add, before someone jumps on this, that this is A) a different story altogether and B) Depends so much on so many different factors that it could - and most probably will - change before your 26th. But - IN MY OPINION, based on the current trajectory, being qualified in 3 years wouldn't be so bad...might even be a bit late.