Home / Sports / 2026 World Cup: Top Stars to Watch
2026 World Cup: Top Stars to Watch
12 Feb
Summary
- The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on June 11 across three countries.
- 48 teams will compete for the title, with stars like Messi and Ronaldo participating.
- The tournament will feature iconic players and up-and-coming talents from around the globe.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to commence on June 11, spanning across three host countries and 16 cities. This expanded tournament will feature 48 national teams competing for the prestigious title.
Global football icons such as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are anticipated to grace the event. Messi, at 38, aims to lead Argentina to back-to-back titles, while Ronaldo, aged 41, seeks to win the World Cup for Portugal, a trophy that has eluded him throughout his illustrious career.
Newer stars like Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé are also poised to make significant impacts. Bellingham seeks to lead England to their first major title in decades, while Mbappé, a 2018 winner, aims for France's third World Cup crown.
The tournament will also highlight emerging talents like Lamine Yamal, who at just 17, is already considered one of the world's best. The event promises a blend of experienced legends and future stars, all competing on the grandest stage.
Notable players set to participate include Vinícius Júnior for Brazil, aiming to end their 24-year drought, and Erling Haaland, who could lead Norway in their first World Cup appearance since 1998. The tournament's expansive format and global appeal underscore its significance in the world of sports.




