The 2026 World Cup is not only a stage for top-level competitions but also a gathering place for football stars who own huge assets.
Besides the highest salaries and bonuses in the world, many players have successfully built business empires spanning from hotels, real estate, fashion, technology to media. Thanks to that, their asset value is constantly increasing and far exceeding the scope of the pitch.
Below are the top 5 richest players participating in the 2026 World Cup, with assets ranging from hundreds of millions to more than 1 billion USD:
1. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) - about 1.4 billion USD
The number one position belongs to Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese superstar currently owns an estimated fortune of about 1.4 billion USD, the highest among players participating in the 2026 World Cup. The contract with Al Nassr brings Ronaldo the highest income in world sports.
In addition, the 41-year-old striker also owns a business empire spanning from hotels, gyms, fashion, perfumes to real estate and media. Thanks to huge revenue both on and off the field, Ronaldo continues to maintain his position as the richest player in the world.
2. Lionel Messi (Argentina) - about 1.1 billion USD
The 2022 World Cup champion has officially joined the billionaire club of world sports. After more than two decades of playing at the top in the colors of Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami, Messi built a fortune exceeding 1 billion USD.
In addition to income from football, the Argentine superstar also cooperates with a series of major brands such as Adidas, Pepsi, Mastercard and many other multinational corporations.
3. Neymar (Brazil) - about 450 million USD
Neymar ranks third in the list with assets of about 450 million USD. From Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain to Saudi Arabia, the Brazilian striker is always in the group of highest-paid players in the world.
In addition, advertising contracts with Puma and many international brands also bring Neymar huge revenue. He is still one of the richest athletes on the planet.
4. Kylian Mbappé (France) - about 250 million USD
Kylian Mbappé is the brightest star of the current generation of players. Joining Real Madrid helps the French striker's income continue to increase sharply thanks to a high salary along with bonuses and image rights.
In addition to the football field, Mbappé is also a representative face for many global brands such as Nike, Dior or Hublot. At the age of 27, he is considered the leading candidate to join the group of billionaire players in the future.
5. Harry Kane (UK) - about 150 million USD
The England captain currently owns assets of about 150 million USD. After moving to Bayern Munich, Harry Kane quickly became one of the highest-paid players in Europe.
In addition to income from football, the striker born in 1993 also cooperates with many major brands in the fields of sports, technology and fashion, helping his assets continuously increase.
