The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be one of the most historic tournaments football has ever seen.
With legends such as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo preparing for another appearance on the global stage, and younger stars like Kylian Mbappe chasing history of their own, several long-standing World Cup records could be rewritten.
From individual milestones to national achievements, the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico could produce unforgettable moments that reshape football history.
Messi and Ronaldo Chase Unprecedented Milestones
Few players have dominated football’s biggest stage like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Both superstars are on course to become the first footballers in history to participate in six FIFA World Cup tournaments.
Messi could further strengthen his hold on several records, including most World Cup appearances, most minutes played and most matches captained.
Meanwhile, Ronaldo has an opportunity to become the first player ever to score in six different World Cup editions.
Mbappe Targets Goal-Scoring History
French forward Kylian Mbappe enters the tournament with a realistic chance of challenging one of the most famous records in World Cup history.
Germany legend Miroslav Klose remains the competition’s all-time leading scorer with 16 goals.
Mbappe is already within striking distance and could move closer to or even surpass the record depending on France’s progress.
The Real Madrid star is also aiming to become the first player to score in three separate World Cup finals.
Nations Chasing Historic Achievements
The battle for football’s biggest trophy could also produce new records among international teams.
Argentina are seeking to become only the third nation to successfully defend a World Cup title.
Brazil, already the most successful team in tournament history, could extend their record haul of World Cup trophies.
France are pursuing a place in a third consecutive World Cup final, an achievement only a select few nations have managed.
Full List: 20 Records That Could Be Broken at World Cup 2026
1. Messi or Mbappe could challenge Klose’s goal record
Germany’s Miroslav Klose holds the all-time World Cup scoring record with 16 goals.
2. Ronaldo could score in six different World Cups
The Portugal captain is already the only player to score in five editions.
3. Messi could extend his appearance record
The Argentine currently holds the record for most World Cup matches played.
4. Messi and Ronaldo could become six-time participants
No player has ever appeared in six FIFA World Cups.
5. Messi could extend his assist records
The Argentina captain already owns several assist-related World Cup records.
6. Messi could add to his minutes-played record
He currently holds the record for most minutes played in tournament history.
7. Messi could increase his captaincy record
No player has captained more World Cup matches.
8. Mbappe could make final history
The French star could become the first player to score in three World Cup finals.
9. Argentina could retain the trophy
Only Italy and Brazil have successfully defended a World Cup title.
10. Brazil could increase its title record
The Seleção remain the most successful nation in World Cup history.
11. England or Uruguay could end lengthy title droughts
Either nation could set a new record gap between championships.
12. Germany could extend runner-up record
Germany have finished second more times than any other country.
13. Germany could add to third-place record
The Germans also lead the rankings for third-place finishes.
14. France could reach a third straight final
Only a few nations have achieved this feat.
15. Brazil could extend appearance record
The South Americans remain the only country to appear in every World Cup.
16. Brazil could increase wins and goals records
No nation has recorded more victories or goals.
17. England could add to draw record
England currently hold the record for most drawn matches.
18. Germany could extend goals-conceded record
The four-time champions have played more World Cup matches than almost any nation.
19. Mexico could add to defeat record
The hosts have accumulated the most losses in tournament history.
20. A Host Nation Could Finally Win Again
No host country has lifted the World Cup since France triumphed in 1998.
A Tournament Built for History
The expanded 48-team format guarantees more matches, more stories and more opportunities for records to fall.
Whether it is Messi extending his legendary legacy, Ronaldo creating another historic milestone, or Mbappe establishing himself among football’s greatest players, the 2026 FIFA World Cup promises to be remembered as a tournament of records.
For football fans across the globe, history is waiting to be written.