Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo Still Lead the FIFA World Rankings Ahead of 2026

FIFA released its first official 2026 World Ranking update, and once again Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo remain central figures in global football alongside their national teams. Both the Argentina national team and the Portugal national team held their positions following the conclusion of the 2025 international calendar.

Argentina remains in second place with 1,873.33 points, sitting just behind the top spot, while Portugal ranks sixth with 1,760.38 points. The margins at the top are extremely tight, setting the stage for potential movement in the coming months.

This update comes after a relatively quiet period at the elite level. Following the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations, there were no major tournaments capable of significantly reshaping the upper portion of the rankings, allowing traditional powerhouses to maintain stability.

Spain currently leads the FIFA rankings with 1,877.18 points, narrowly ahead of Messi’s Argentina. France completes the podium, while England and Brazil round out the Top 5, leaving Portugal just outside striking distance of a climb.

Despite the passage of time, Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo continue to influence not only matches on the pitch but also the global standing of their national teams. Argentina remains one of the top contenders heading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while Portugal continues to compete among Europe’s elite.

The gap between Brazil and Portugal is just 0.08 points, a virtually negligible difference that could shift in the next international window. March friendlies and official competitions will be crucial in reshaping the table.

With the Finalissima and several high-profile international matches on the horizon, both Messi and Ronaldo will once again have the chance to directly impact the FIFA World Rankings. Every match matters, and even minor results could lead to major changes within the Top 10.

As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup continues, the indirect rivalry between Messi and CR7 remains alive. The FIFA rankings once again confirm that—even in the latter stages of their legendary careers—both icons remain dominant forces in world football.