Cristiano Ronaldo heads the list of highest-paid players at the FIFA World Cup 2026 with estimated earnings of $300 million, including $235 million from on-field income and $65 million from endorsements.
Lionel Messi ranks second with $140 million, split evenly between salary and commercial deals. Both icons have surpassed the billion-dollar net worth milestone, making history as the first billionaire players to feature in a World Cup.
The 2026 edition, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marks the first time 48 teams will compete across three countries. Ronaldo, 41, enters his sixth World Cup appearance still chasing the elusive trophy, while Messi prepares to lead defending champions Argentina in pursuit of a fourth title.
France’s Kylian Mbappé ranks third with $95 million, followed by Norway’s Erling Haaland at $80 million and Brazil’s Vinicius Jr. at $60 million. Liverpool star Mohamed Salah earned $55 million, Senegal’s Sadio Mané $54 million, and England’s Jude Bellingham $44 million. Rising Spanish talent Lamine Yamal, just 18, secured $43 million, while Harry Kane earned $41 million and Neymar $38 million despite injury concerns.
Forbes reported that the top 11 players collectively earned $950 million in the past year, excluding taxes, transfer fees, and agent commissions. The rankings highlight how footballers have evolved into global brands, with endorsement deals and business ventures rivalling their on-field salaries.
