Lionel Messi named IFFHS best player of 2026 World Cup; FIFA releases ideal XI

Spain captured the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating Argentina 1‑0 in extra time. FIFA awarded the tournament’s Golden Ball to Spanish midfielder Rodri, while the International Federation of Football History & Statistics (IFFHS) named Argentina’s Lionel Messi the best player, citing eight goals, four assists and an average rating of 8.33 across eight matches.

The IFFHS decision contrasts with FIFA’s official awards, sparking debate among fans and analysts. Messi, 39, was highlighted for his sustained influence throughout the competition, outperforming younger stars such as Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham and Erling Haaland.

FIFA’s fan‑voted “ideal XI” featured goalkeeper Vozinha of Cabo Verde, Spanish full‑backs Pedro Porro and Marc Cucurella, and midfielder Rodri. The midfield also included France’s Michael Olise and England’s Jude Bellingham, while the attack comprised Messi, France’s Kylian Mbappé and Norway’s Erling Haaland. Argentina’s Lisandro Martínez secured a defensive spot.

Beyond awards, agencies highlighted marketing activations that marked the tournament, from Norwegian Air’s Instagram logo bet with British Airways to Fox Sports and Indeed’s Times Square ambush, illustrating the commercial creativity surrounding the World Cup.