Messi, Ronaldo, Mbappe Among Stars Setting 14 Records at 2026 World Cup
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- FIFA published a list of 14 new records set during the 2026 World Cup, highlighting achievements by stars like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
- Cristiano Ronaldo became the first player to score in six World Cups, while Kylian Mbappe set a new all-time goalscoring record.
- Lionel Messi also broke records for most World Cup victories and consecutive matches scored in, among others.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup saw numerous historic milestones achieved by football's biggest stars, with FIFA releasing a comprehensive list of 14 new records set during the tournament. Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, among others, etched their names further into the sport's history books.
First player to score in six FIFA World Cup editions
Cristiano Ronaldo, at 41, achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the first player to score in six different FIFA World Cup editions. He also became the second-oldest goalscorer in World Cup history, surpassed only by Cameroon's Roger Milla.
All-time leading World Cup goalscorer (22 goals)
Kylian Mbappe claimed the title of all-time leading World Cup goalscorer, netting 22 goals and surpassing Miroslav Klose. Lionel Messi was not far behind, securing a record 23 World Cup victories and scoring in nine consecutive appearances, a new benchmark. Messi also set a new record for goals scored from outside the penalty area, with seven, surpassing Brazilian legend Rivellino.
Most World Cup victories (23)
Defensively, Spain's goalkeeper Unai Simon recorded the most clean sheets in a single World Cup with seven, while midfielder Rodri set a new tournament record for completed passes with 790. France's coach Didier Deschamps also extended his record for the most World Cup matches managed.
Scored in most consecutive World Cup appearances (9)
Originally published by The Punch in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.