List of Top 7 Highest Paid Players at 2026 FIFA World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is not just the biggest football tournament ever. It is also the most expensive one when it comes to player earnings. The FIFA 2026 World Cup is now set to make another history as for the first time in history, two active billionaire footballers will be playing at the same World Cup. Here is a look at the top 7 highest-paid players that will be competing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Quick Summary 

1. Cristiano Ronaldo - $300 Million

Cristiano Ronaldo is not just the highest-paid player at the 2026 World Cup. He is also the highest-paid athlete in the entire world right now. Ronaldo takes the top spot in this ranking with $300 million in total earnings. This includes around $235 million that comes from his playing contract with Al-Nassr and $65 million from different brand advertisements and business ventures. 

At 41 years old, he will be playing his sixth World Cup, which is a record in itself. Ronaldo is estimated to have a net worth of $1.2 billion, making him one of the two billionaire players at this tournament. 

2. Lionel Messi - $140 Million

Argentina captain Lionel Messi takes the second spot with estimated earnings of $140 million, that is split evenly between on-field and off-field income. He plays for Inter Miami in the USA. Messi has an estimated net worth of $1.1 billion. 

As defending champions, Argentina will rely heavily on Messi. If he scores four goals during the tournament then he would surpass Miroslav Klose's tally of 16 goals and become the highest scorer in World Cup history.

3. Kylian Mbappe - $95 Million

French forward Kylian Mbappe occupies third place with $95 million. The Real Madrid star has already won a World Cup and at 27 years old he remains one of football's biggest names. 

His on-field earnings stand at $70 million and off-field earnings at $30 million. He has endorsement deals with many big brands. Mbappe will be eager to win the trophy again. 

4. Erling Haaland - $80 Million

Norwegian goal machine Erling Haaland is in fourth place with $80 million. After helping Norway qualify for its first World Cup since 1998, Haaland arrives as one of the sport's most feared strikers. 

His on-field earnings are $60 million and off-field earnings are $20 million. Norway's return to the World Cup after 28 years is largely because of his goals. 

5. Vinicius Jr. - $60 Million

Brazil's Vinicius Jr. takes the fifth spot with earnings of $60 million. The Real Madrid player is expected to play a central role as Brazil tries to win its sixth World Cup title. His on-field earnings are $40 million and off-field earnings are $20 million. 

6. Mohamed Salah - $55 Million

Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah takes the sixth spot on this list with a total earnings of $55 million. His on-field earnings are $35 million and off-field earnings are $20 million. 

Salah is one of the biggest football names in Africa. He is Egypt's captain and will look to make a mark on the world stage. 

7. Sadio Mane - $54 Million

Senegal's Sadio Mane will make $54 million, playing for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League. His on-field earnings are $50 million and off-field earnings are $4 million, which shows that almost all his income comes from his playing contract. 

He was part of the Senegal squad that won the Africa Cup of Nations and has consistently been one of the best forwards. 

The 2026 FIFA World Cup brings together football's biggest stars and biggest earners on one stage. The tournament shows how modern footballers have become global brands in their own right. All eyes are now on the pitch to see if the highest-paid players can also become World Cup champions.