FIFA World Cup 2026: Highest-paid football stars — who earns how much?
The biggest FIFA World Cup 2026 is underway with 48 teams co-hosted by USA, Canada and Mexico. Along with the on-field performance, the estimated earnings of the highest-earning soccer stars are also in focus: Cristiano Ronaldo tops; Messi, Mbappe, Holland and others behind.
The 48-team FIFA World Cup 2026 has started as the biggest edition in the USA, Canada and Mexico and has gathered attention. Along with matches, goals, title race, the earnings of the world's top-earning stars are also a topic of discussion among fans. Below are estimates of income from various sources including club salaries, bonuses, sponsorships, endorsement deals, business investments. These may vary from official figures.
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Cristiano Ronaldo: The Portugal star continues to lead the way as the highest earner in world football. Reports suggest an annual revenue of around $300 million (roughly Rs 2,836 crore). Although late in his career, he continues to attract big sponsorship deals. This may be one of his last appearances on the world stage.
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Lionel Messi: Argentina captain is second on the list. Annual revenue is estimated at around $140 million (roughly Rs 1,323 crore). Even after the last World Cup victory, Messi's global recognition and brand value remain at a high level.
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Gillian Mbappe: The French superstar's annual income is around $95 million. Considered one of the best players of his generation, Mbappe is expected to play a key role on the World Cup 2026 stage.
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Erling Holland: The Norwegian entrepreneur has an annual income of around $80 million. Known for his prodigious goalscoring prowess, Haaland has grown into an unquestionable brand commercially as well as success on the field.
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Vinicius Jr.: The Brazilian winger's annual income is around $60 million. At a young age, he has made a huge impact for the club and country and has quickly become a high profile figure with fans and sponsors.
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Mohamed Salah: The Egyptian star earns around $55 million a year. As one of Africa's most successful entrepreneurs, Salah also amasses endorsement deals with leading global brands.
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Sadio Mane: The Senegalese player's annual income is around $54 million. Steady status and global fame have kept him in the list of highest earners.
World Cup 2026 is not just a battle for the world title; It's also a platform for the biggest stars in the sports business. From Ronaldo to Messi to Mbappe to Haaland — their earnings stories are making headlines along with their performances.
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