Cristiano Ronaldo has officially been named among the 26 finalists for the 2026 FIFPRO World 11 alongside Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé, setting up an exciting battle for a place in the world’s best team.
Ronaldo Joins Messi and Mbappé on 2026 FIFPRO World 11 Shortlist
Cristiano Ronaldo has officially been named among the 26 finalists for the 2026 FIFPRO World 11, alongside longtime rival Lionel Messi and Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappé.
FIFPRO announced the shortlist on November 2, bringing together some of the biggest names in world football.
Despite being 41 years old, Ronaldo remains in the race for a place in the world’s best XI.
Ronaldo and Messi receive another major recognition
Ronaldo has earned a nomination thanks to his performances for Al Nassr and Portugal during the voting period.
Meanwhile, Messi continues to impress for Inter Miami and Argentina at the age of 39.
Both legends are now competing for a place in the final team alongside some of football’s biggest stars.
The eight nominated forwards are:
- Cristiano Ronaldo
- Lionel Messi
- Kylian Mbappé
- Harry Kane
- Erling Haaland
- Lamine Yamal
- Michael Olise
- Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
Thousands of players vote for the world’s best
The FIFPRO World 11 is one of football’s most respected awards because professional players choose the winners.
This year, 19,806 male footballers from 73 countries took part in the voting process.
The nominees were selected based on their performances between August 4, 2025, and July 19, 2026.
Only three forwards are guaranteed places in the final XI, meaning Ronaldo, Messi and Mbappé face strong competition.
When will the final World 11 be announced?
FIFPRO will officially reveal the 2026 Men’s World 11 on November 9.
Ronaldo and Messi have both enjoyed incredible careers and remain among the most recognised players in world football.
However, being nominated does not guarantee a place in the final team.
With Ronaldo, Messi, Mbappé and several younger stars competing for the same places, the final announcement promises to attract huge attention from football fans around the world.
