Winning the FIFA World Cup is priceless, but the tournament’s biggest stars are also among the highest-paid athletes on the planet.
Cristiano Ronaldo once again tops the earnings rankings heading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland headline a group of global superstars whose annual income stretches far beyond what they earn on the pitch.
According to Forbes’ annual earnings estimates, which combine on-field salary and bonuses with endorsements and other commercial ventures over the previous 12 months, these are the 10 highest-paid players competing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
How the Rankings Were Calculated
The rankings are based on estimated earnings over the previous 12 months and include:
Club salary
Performance bonuses
Commercial endorsements
Sponsorship agreements
Licensing and appearance income
The figures are estimates compiled by Forbes and reflect total annual earnings, not FIFA World Cup prize money.
Highest-Paid Players at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
1. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
Estimated earnings: $300 million
At 41, Ronaldo remains soccer’s biggest financial powerhouse. His Al Nassr contract is among the richest in professional sports, while his unmatched global profile continues to generate enormous endorsement revenue. Even in the later stages of his remarkable career, no player at the 2026 FIFA World Cup earns more.
2. Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Estimated earnings: $140 million
Nearly four years after leading Argentina to World Cup glory, Messi remains one of the sport’s most valuable global brands.
Between his Inter Miami contract and long-standing commercial partnerships that include Adidas and Apple, the Argentine captain continues to generate enormous income on and off the field.
3. Kylian Mbappé (France)
Estimated earnings: $95 million
Already one of the biggest stars in world soccer, Mbappé has continued to grow both his profile and earning power.
His combination of elite performances and worldwide marketability has cemented his place among the game’s highest-paid players entering the tournament.
4. Erling Haaland (Norway)
Estimated earnings: $80 million
