2026 FIFA World Cup Features Record 48 Teams and Billionaire Athletes
Summary
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is historic with 48 teams participating and matches hosted jointly by the US, Canada, and Mexico across 16 cities. Billionaire athletes like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have featured prominently, while ticket prices have soared to record highs.
Key Points
- The 2026 FIFA World Cup featured a record 48 teams and was jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico in 16 cities.
- Cristiano Ronaldo, the highest-earning athlete with a $1.2 billion net worth, played his sixth and likely final World Cup.
- Lionel Messi, also a billionaire, led Argentina to the semi-finals and became the all-time leading World Cup scorer.
- Kylian Mbappé continued his top form leading France to the final, while Erling Haaland made a historic impact for Norway in their first World Cup since 1998.
