Ronaldo Tops List of Highest-Paid Stars Expected at 2026 FIFA World Cup
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will not only bring together the world’s best football talents but also spotlight the massive financial influence surrounding the modern game.
With huge salaries, endorsement deals and commercial partnerships, several players expected to feature at the tournament rank among the highest-paid athletes in global football.
Leading the list is Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, who remains football’s top earner with an estimated annual income of $216 million. The Al Nassr forward continues to dominate commercially through his Saudi Pro League contract and global endorsement portfolio.
French striker Karim Benzema follows with estimated earnings of $112 million. The former Ballon d’Or winner remains one of football’s biggest names despite leaving European football for Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia.
Argentine legend Lionel Messi is third on the list with around $80 million in yearly earnings. Since joining Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, Messi has continued to expand his commercial empire while maintaining his status as one of football’s greatest icons.
Algerian winger Riyad Mahrez earns approximately $60 million annually. The former Manchester City star remains one of Africa’s most successful and marketable footballers following his move to Al Ahli.
Senegal captain Sadio Mané takes home an estimated $46 million each year. The Al Nassr forward continues to enjoy strong commercial appeal following successful spells in European football and his achievements with Senegal.
French superstar Kylian Mbappé, now at Real Madrid, earns around $37 million annually. Widely regarded as one of the faces of the next generation, Mbappé remains one of football’s most valuable global brands.
Norwegian striker Erling Haaland earns about $36 million per year. The Manchester City forward’s remarkable goal-scoring exploits have rapidly increased both his market value and endorsement profile.
Young England midfielder Jude Bellingham has also emerged among football’s top earners with an estimated annual income of $24 million. His performances for Real Madrid have turned him into one of the game’s brightest young stars.
Brazilian winger Vinícius Júnior earns around $23 million annually as his influence continues to grow for both Real Madrid and Brazil.
Rounding out the list is Egyptian forward Mohamed Salah, who earns an estimated $25 million per year. The Liverpool star remains one of the Premier League’s biggest attractions and one of Africa’s most influential football figures.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is expected to be one of the most commercially successful tournaments in history, with football’s biggest stars combining sporting excellence with global brand power.
