FIFA has officially revealed the Team of the Tournament for the FIFA World Cup 2026, recognizing the players who delivered the most outstanding performances throughout football’s biggest global competition.
The official Best XI brings together a blend of world-class veterans, emerging stars, and breakout performers who consistently influenced matches and played pivotal roles in their national teams’ World Cup campaigns.
Goalkeeper
The goalkeeping position goes to Vozinha (Cape Verde), whose remarkable performances earned widespread praise during the tournament. The experienced shot-stopper produced a series of crucial saves and demonstrated exceptional composure under pressure, making him one of the competition’s biggest surprises.
Defense
FIFA’s selected back four combines defensive solidity, tactical intelligence, and attacking support from the flanks.
Pedro Porro (Spain) impressed with his relentless energy, defensive consistency, and ability to contribute to Spain’s attacking transitions from right-back.
Íñigo Martínez (Spain) provided leadership and composure in central defense, helping organize one of the tournament’s most disciplined backlines.
Dayot Upamecano (France) earned recognition for his physical dominance, aerial strength, and commanding displays throughout France’s campaign.
Marc Cucurella (Spain) completed the defensive unit after delivering high-intensity performances, combining aggressive pressing with reliable defensive positioning on the left side.
Midfield
The midfield trio reflects a balance of control, creativity, and tactical discipline.
Rodri (Spain) was selected as the midfield anchor after consistently dictating possession, breaking up opposition attacks, and controlling the tempo of matches.
Jude Bellingham (England) showcased his trademark box-to-box ability, contributing both defensively and offensively while driving England forward in key moments.
Michael Olise (France) added creativity and flair, using his technical ability, vision, and precise passing to unlock opposing defenses.
Attack
Leading the Team of the Tournament is a world-class attacking trio featuring three of international football’s biggest names.
Kylian Mbappé (France) earned his place following another outstanding World Cup campaign, combining blistering pace with clinical finishing and constant attacking threat.
Erling Haaland (Norway) was recognized for his exceptional goalscoring instinct, physical presence, and ability to convert decisive opportunities inside the penalty area.
Lionel Messi (Argentina) secured a place in the lineup after once again demonstrating his extraordinary vision, creativity, and leadership, continuing to influence matches at the highest level with moments of brilliance.
A Tournament Defined by Quality
FIFA’s official Team of the Tournament highlights the players who made the greatest impact during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The selection reflects a competition characterized by tactical excellence, defensive organization, and attacking quality, while celebrating individual performances that captivated football fans around the world.
Although every Team of the Tournament inevitably generates debate over notable omissions, FIFA’s official Best XI serves as the governing body's recognition of the players who stood out on the sport’s biggest stage.