The 2026 FIFA World Cup will forever be etched in our memories as it came with plenty of firsts as well as a number of records never seen before in the history of the tournament.
Spain were crowned champions for the second time in their history after a slim 1-0 win against 10-man Argentina at the MetLife Stadium on Sunday.
With this victory, Spain became the first team to win the World Cup without trailing even once since Germany in 1990. La Roja also only conceded one goal throughout the tournament – another record.
Prize money
Out of the total $871 million FIFA prize pool, runners-up Argentina walked away with $34 million, third-place England claimed $30 million after beating fourth-place France who received $28 million.
By defeating Argentina in extra-time La Roja unlocked a massive $51 million grand prize. This record-breaking payout marks a substantial increase from the $42 million collected by Argentina in 2022 and the $38 million earned by France in 2018.
The winner’s check is funded directly by FIFA’s $871 million total distribution pool, which was expanded significantly to accommodate the extensive logistics and travel demands across the three host nations.
This edition of the World Cup was also the first to feature 48 teams, 12 more than the previous tournament, with FIFA looking to make it more inclusive for more nations globally.
The introduction of more teams could also be the reason that we witnessed the most goals ever scored at a World Cup. A record 308 goals were scored throughout the tournament in 104 games – another record.
Goals & assists
France’s Kylian Mbappe became the all-time goalscorer at the World Cup after bagging 10 goals at this summer’s tournament. The Real Madrid forward has now scored 22 World Cup goals, one more than Lionel Messi.
His countryman Michael Olise was also a key part of the French team, providing seven assists, setting yet another World Cup record.
Messi bagged eight goals at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and was also the player who completed the most dribbles throughout the tournament.
At 39 years and 21 days old, Messi became the oldest outfield player ever to appear in a World Cup semi-final against England.
The Inter Miami CF forward’s goal against Jordan in the Group stage, saw him become the first player in history to score in seven straight World Cup games.
Despite his heroics, Argentina failed to register a single shot on target in 90 minutes against Spain, something that has never been seen before in a World Cup final.
Deschamps record
Cape Verde goalkeeper Voizinha rose to fame instantly after keeping out Spain in their first-ever World Cup match, before more heroics in a thrilling 3-2 defeat to Argentina.
However, Paraguay’s goalkeeper Orlando Gill made the most saves in the tournament despite an early exit for his country. He made a total of 28 saves.
France head coach Didier Deschamps already made history by becoming the first to win the World Cup both as player and coach. He also became the most successful manager in the tournament’s history with 19 wins.