The FIFA World Cup returns for its 23rd edition, running from June 11 to July 19, 2026. This year marks a number of firsts for the prestigious tournament – including an expanded format featuring 48 teams and a historic three-country hosting arrangement across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. FIFA will also stage its first-ever halftime show, with Madonna, Shakira, and BTS set to perform during the final.
With 16 host cities and 104 matches played over 39 days, anticipation is at an all-time high. Amid the excitement, all eyes are on football’s biggest stars – and who better to spotlight than the highest-paid players in the game today?
Cristiano Ronaldo – $295 million (RM1.3 billion)
The first footballer on the list needs no introduction. Cristiano Ronaldo is widely regarded as one of football’s greatest players. He was born in Portugal in 1985, and he carved his name playing for Manchester United and Real Madrid. After 14 years in the European clubs, he made a career shift to the Middle East in 2023 to play for Al-Nassr, a Riyadh-based football association, where he reportedly earns a salary of up to US$235 million.
Aside from the sport, Ronaldo also owns a personal YouTube channel called ‘UR Cristiano’, with a total of 79.6 million subscribers. He further boosts his wealth through ambassadorships with brands like Nike and Dreame, resulting in an additional $65 million to his net worth.
Lionel Messi – $140 million (RM566.72 million)
37-year-old Argentine athlete Lionel Messi has won multiple FIFA and Ballon d’Or honours throughout his career. These awards follow his role in Argentina’s 16th Copa América triumph and his help in securing Inter Miami’s first-ever championship. He is paid $70 million as a football player.
Beyond football, Messi has built an equally lucrative business empire. He owns a Spanish club near Barcelona called Unió Esportiva and operates an Argentine club called Leones de Rosario. He has also partnered with various prestigious brands, among them being NetJets, Adidas, and Apple TV.
Kylian Mbappé – $100 million (RM404.8 million)
French footballer Kylian Mbappé burst onto the football scene in 2016. At the age of 18, he scored 26 goals while playing for Monaco, landing him a place with Paris Saint-Germain. After six seasons at Parc des Princes, Mbappé made the move to Real Madrid in 2024. He even rejected a $232 million annual salary from his former French football team, accentuating his stance in leaving. His decision was soon justified, as he helped Real Madrid compete in the UEFA Champions League, carving his name as one of La Liga’s highest earners with a salary of $70 million.
Today, Mbappé is a representative of multiple major luxury houses – with Dior, Hublot, and Fairmont, to name a few – adding $30 million to his name. Jonathan Anderson selected Mbappé as the face of his debut spring/summer collection at Dior, fronting the maison’s aristocratic aesthetic. “Kylian Mbappé is the voice of a generation and an inspiration to many people in the world of sport and beyond,” said the Irish designer. “These films show the charm and charisma that make him the perfect ambassador for this house.”
Erling Haaland – $80 million (RM323.8 million)
If there is one thing Erling Haaland is known for, it is for his speed and strength. Now playing for Manchester City, the Norwegian player scored 27 goals in 35 Premier League matches and 86 goals in 89 games with the Black and Yellows. His reputation as one of football’s most intimidating strikers is well-attained, resulting in his $60 million on-field salary.
Haaland also makes approximately $20 million outside of the sport, thanks to his company Chess Mates and his partnership with various brands. He is the ambassador for Breitling, where he co-designed the Chronomat Erling Haaland, a series of limited edition timepieces with meteorite dials.
Vinícius Jr. – $60 million (RM242.88 million)
Brazilian winger Vinícius Jr. first joined Real Madrid in 2018. With a 10-year contract ahead of him, he wages $40 million annually. In this World Cup, he stands among the familiar faces spearheading Brazil’s quest for a sixth World Cup title. The tournament also marks his reunion with Carlo Ancelotti, who guided the forward to some of the biggest successes of his club career at Real Madrid throughout 2021 to 2025.
Off the field, Vinícius Jr reportedly makes earnings of $20 million. He has a passion for advocating, which led him to become a UNESCO Goodwill ambassador. “Of course, I want to be recognised as a great player, but also as a citizen who tried to make a difference,” said Vinicius. In a newly announced collaboration, Fortnite also released a ‘Viní Jr’ skin, which comes with an ‘On Target’ emote.
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