As we look ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, it's important to keep track of some of the top athletes who could be making their mark on the tournament. Here is a list of some of the most promising players to watch out for:

1. Lionel Messi - The Argentine forward has been one of the best players in the world for many years now and he is still showing no signs of slowing down. He has won numerous awards throughout his career, including five Ballon d'Ors.

2. Kylian Mbappe - The French winger is currently playing for Paris Saint-Germain and is considered one of the brightest young talents in football. He has already scored 57 goals in just over 100 appearances for the club.

3. Cristiano Ronaldo - The Portuguese striker is also one of the greatest players of all time and he will definitely be a force to reckon with in the 2026 World Cup. He has won numerous awards throughout his career and is widely regarded as one of the best ever.

4. Erling Haaland - The Norwegian forward has recently joined Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund and is expected to make a big impact in England. He has already shown glimpses of his talent and is considered one of the top prospects in world football.

5. Kevin De Bruyne - The Belgian midfielder is known for his exceptional skill and creativity on the pitch. He has played for Manchester City for several years now and is highly regarded by fans and critics alike.

These are just a few of the top athletes who could make their mark on the 2026 World Cup. Of course, there are many other talented players who have the potential to surprise us in the future. It will be exciting to see how these players perform and whether they can help their teams reach the final stages of the tournament.