World Cup 2026: Ronaldo and Messi Top the List of Highest-Paid Players (Top 11)

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo and Argentina skipper Lionel Messi top the list of highest‑paid players heading into the 2026 World Cup.

Ronaldo leads with estimated pre‑tax and pre‑agent fee earnings of $295 million over the last 12 months, according to Sportico.

These figures are largely derived from his contract with Saudi Pro League club Al‑Nassr.

The Portugal forward joined Al‑Nassr in 2023, earning roughly $230 million on the field during the previous season after signing a two‑year renewal.

It is widely believed that Ronaldo’s contract is supplemented by commercial agreements backed by the club.

The 41‑year‑old also garners about $65 million annually from partners such as Nike and Herbalife.

Below is the list of the highest‑earning players expected to compete at the 2026 World Cup:

1. Ronaldo: $295 million (On‑field earnings: $230 million; Off‑field earnings: $65 million)

2. Messi: $140 million (On‑field earnings: $70 million; Off‑field earnings: $70 million)

3. Mbappé: $100 million (On‑field earnings: $70 million; Off‑field earnings: $30 million)

4. Haaland: $80 million (On‑field earnings: $60 million; Off‑field earnings: $20 million)

5. Vinícius: $60 million (On‑field earnings: $40 million; Off‑field earnings: $20 million)

6. Salah: $55 million (On‑field earnings: $35 million; Off‑field earnings: $20 million)

7. Sadio Mané: $54 million (On‑field earnings: $50 million; Off‑field earnings: $4 million)

8. Mahrez: $53 million (On‑field earnings: $52 million; Off‑field earnings: $1 million)

9. Bellingham: $44 million (On‑field earnings: $29 million; Off‑field earnings: $15 million)

10. Yamal: $43 million (On‑field earnings: $33 million; Off‑field earnings: $10 million)

11. Kane: $42 million (On‑field earnings: $30 million; Off‑field earnings: $12 million)