Pelé > Maradona > Messi. Cristiano Ronaldo was not included. BBC's ranking of all-time World Cup greatest stars

In a move that is sure to ignite debate among football fans, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has unveiled its ranking of the greatest stars in World Cup history. The prestigious list, released shortly before the tournament, places Brazilian legend Pelé at the pinnacle, recognizing his unparalleled impact on the sport's biggest stage. Following Pelé, the ranking acknowledges the genius of Argentine icon Diego Maradona, who single-handedly led his nation to World Cup glory. Lionel Messi, the current maestro of Argentinian football and widely considered one of the greatest players of all time, secures the third position. Notably absent from the very top tier of this esteemed list is Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese superstar whose prolific career has seen him break numerous records. The BBC's selection, curated by a panel with significant football expertise, aims to settle the age-old question of who stands above the rest in World Cup history. The omission of Ronaldo from the top three is likely to be a significant talking point, given his immense achievements and status in the modern game. The ranking serves as a prelude to the upcoming World Cup, setting the stage for discussions about legacy and greatness as a new generation of stars prepares to make their mark.