10 World Cup Records That Could Be Broken in 2026

Records are made to be broken, and the expanded format of the 2026 World Cup provides the perfect setting for historic milestones. Here are the top records that could fall in 2026:

1. Highest Total Tournament Goals

The current record is 172 goals (Qatar 2022). With 104 matches played in 2026 compared to 64 in 2022, the total goals record will almost certainly be broken, potentially reaching over 250 goals.

2. Most Matches by a Single Player

Lionel Messi holds the record with 26 matches. If he features in 2026 and Argentina reaches the semifinals, he could extend this record to over 30 appearances.

3. Highest Total Tournament Attendance

The USA 1994 tournament holds the record with 3.59 million fans. With massive NFL stadiums hosting 104 matches, 2026 is projected to eclipse 5 million total fans.

4. Most Goals in a Single Tournament

Just Fontaine scored 13 goals in 1958. With strikers playing up to 8 matches, a clinical forward could threaten this long-standing record.