World Cup 2026: 20 records that could be broken by Messi, Ronaldo, others

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, set to be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the tournament presents a fertile ground for football's biggest stars and nations to etch their names further into history by breaking numerous long-standing records.

Stars like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are poised to challenge significant milestones. Messi, already holding the record for most World Cup matches played (26) and most minutes played (2,314), could extend his appearance and captaincy records. Alongside France's Kylian Mbappe, Messi (13 World Cup goals) and Mbappe (12 goals) are in contention to surpass Miroslav Klose's all-time record of 16 World Cup goals. Cristiano Ronaldo, the only player to have scored in five World Cups, has the opportunity to become the first to score in six different editions.

Beyond individual achievements, national teams also stand to make history. Reigning champions Argentina could become only the third nation, after Italy and Brazil, to win consecutive World Cup titles. Brazil, the most successful nation with five titles, could extend its lead to six. Meanwhile, England or Uruguay could end their respective title droughts, potentially surpassing Italy's record of 44 years between World Cup victories.

Other potential records include Mbappe making history by scoring in a third World Cup final, having already found the net in the 2018 and 2022 finals. Messi could also add to his assist records, having recorded them in five different World Cups, and potentially challenge the overall assist record depending on how statistics are counted.

The 2026 tournament promises not only thrilling competition but also the potential for significant historical shifts in football's most prestigious event, with established legends and emerging talents vying to rewrite the record books.