The 2026 FIFA World Cup is already historic before a ball has been kicked — the first 48-team tournament, the first co-hosted by three nations, the first with 104 matches. But beyond the structural milestones, the tournament also has the potential to rewrite some of football's most cherished individual and collective records. Here are the key marks under threat this summer.

Attendance Record: 3.6 Million (USA 1994)

The 1994 World Cup in the United States drew a total attendance of 3,587,538 across 52 matches — the all-time World Cup record. In 2026, with 104 matches across three nations and 16 stadiums — many with capacities above 70,000 — the total attendance could comfortably exceed 5 million, shattering the existing record by more than 40 percent. The 2026 World Cup is almost certain to become the most-attended sporting event in human history.

Most Goals in a Single Tournament: 171 (France 1998)

The 1998 World Cup in France produced 171 goals across 64 matches — the most in a single tournament. With 104 matches in 2026 — 40 more than any previous edition — the total goals scored will almost certainly dwarf that figure, even accounting for the expanded format's tendency to produce more conservative group stage football. A total of 250-plus goals across the tournament is entirely plausible.

Mbappé's Golden Boot Record: 8 Goals (2022)

Kylian Mbappé scored eight goals at the 2022 World Cup — the most by any player in a single tournament since Ronaldo's eight in 2002. With seven matches now possible for players who reach the final (up from seven in 2022 but with more group games), the Golden Boot record could be extended significantly. If Mbappé fires and France go deep, a double-digit tally is theoretically possible.

Most World Cup Goals: Miroslav Klose (16)

Miroslav Klose's record of 16 World Cup goals across four tournaments (2002, 2006, 2010, 2014) has stood since his retirement. Lionel Messi — on 13 World Cup goals — is the active player closest to that mark. In 2026, Messi's final World Cup, he would need four goals to equal Klose and five to break the record. At 38, it is a long shot — but the emotional momentum of a farewell tournament has a way of producing extraordinary things.

Most Appearances: Messi & Ronaldo at Six Tournaments

Both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are set to appear at their sixth World Cup in 2026 — matching the existing record held by Antonio Carbajal and Lothar Matthäus. No player in history has appeared at more than five World Cups. In 2026, Messi and Ronaldo will jointly create a new record — one more extraordinary chapter in the careers of the two greatest players of their generation.