FULL LIST: 11 highest-paid players at World Cup

The upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to make history not only as the largest tournament ever staged with 48 teams but also by featuring two players who have achieved billionaire status: Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

Forbes reports that these two football icons headline the list of the highest-earning players participating in the tournament. Over the past 12 months, Ronaldo and Messi have amassed an estimated $440 million combined. Ronaldo tops the rankings with an impressive $300 million in total earnings, which includes $235 million from his playing contract and an additional $65 million from endorsements and business ventures. The Portuguese captain remains the world's highest-paid athlete, with an estimated net worth of $1.2 billion.

Lionel Messi ranks second on the list with $140 million in earnings. The Argentine captain, who led his country to World Cup victory in 2022, continues to be a highly marketable figure globally. Forbes estimates his net worth at $1.1 billion, making him the second footballer at the tournament to reach the billionaire milestone.

Following the two superstars, French forward Kylian Mbappé is third with $95 million. Norwegian striker Erling Haaland is fourth with $80 million, and Brazil's Vinicius Jr. rounds out the top five with $60 million. The list also includes Mohamed Salah ($55 million), Sadio Mané ($54 million), Jude Bellingham ($44 million), Lamine Yamal ($43 million), Harry Kane ($41 million), and Neymar ($38 million). Collectively, these eleven players earned approximately $950 million in the past year, underscoring the immense financial influence of elite global footballers. The earnings also highlight the growing importance of sponsorships and commercial partnerships for players.