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Tracking the Top Scorers in the 2026 World Cup Golden Boot Race

The 2026 World Cup is now underway across North America, with top soccer nations aiming to dethrone current champions Argentina. Since Brazil's back-to-back titles ending in 1962, no team has successfully defended the trophy. This tournament's race for the Golden Boot promises fierce competition.

Many elite forwards are already making their mark, joined by a few legendary names still active. Yet the World Cup often reveals unexpected goal scorers who rise from relative obscurity to shine on the biggest stage.

Top Odds for the 2026 Golden Boot

Betting markets favor some of soccer's brightest stars for the Golden Boot:

  • Kylian Mbappe (France) +600
  • Harry Kane (England) +700
  • Mikel Oyarzabal (Spain) +1100
  • Erling Haaland (Norway) +1400
  • Lionel Messi (Argentina) +1600
  • Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) +2000
  • Lamine Yamal (Spain) +2200
  • Julian Alvarez (Argentina) +2200
  • Raphinha (Brazil) +2500
  • Ousmane Dembele (France) +2500
  • Michael Olise (France) +3000
  • Vinicius Junior (Brazil) +3000
  • Kai Havertz (Germany) +3000
  • Lautaro Martinez (Argentina) +3500

Recap: 2022 World Cup Golden Boot Winner

Kylian Mbappe made history by scoring a hat-trick in the final against Argentina, the first to do so since Geoff Hurst in 1966. Despite France losing in the penalty shootout after a thrilling 3-3 match, Mbappe secured the Golden Boot with 8 goals, adding to his four goals from 2018.

All-Time World Cup Golden Boot Winners

Across 22 men’s World Cups, 22 different players have earned the Golden Boot. Some winners were not household names but made their mark nonetheless.

Golden Boot Winners Who Also Lifted the World Cup

Out of 22 tournaments, only three times did the top scorer also win the World Cup. Mario Kempes led Argentina to victory in 1978, scoring twice in the final. Italy’s Paolo Rossi repeated the feat in 1982, netting in the final as well. Brazil’s Ronaldo starred in 2002, scoring both goals in the final match.

All-Time World Cup Goal Leaders

Only 13 players have scored 10 or more goals in World Cup history. Among them, only one active player remains: Lionel Messi, who has scored 13 goals through five tournaments. Kylian Mbappe follows with 12 goals.

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