The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature some of the biggest stars in soccer history, including several players who have already lifted the World Cup trophy in previous tournaments. With the competition expanding across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, fans will once again get to watch legendary champions compete on the world’s biggest stage.
From Argentina’s 2022-winning squad to France’s 2018 champions and Germany’s remaining veteran leader, the tournament will showcase a rare collection of players with World Cup-winning experience.
Argentina’s 2022 World Cup Winners Returning in 2026
Argentina enters the 2026 FIFA World Cup with the largest group of returning champions. After winning the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, many of the team’s core stars are back for another title run led by Lionel Messi.
Argentina World Cup Winners Playing in 2026
- Lionel Messi
- Emiliano Martinez
- Gonzalo Montiel
- Nahuel Molina
- Cristian Romero
- Nicolas Otamendi
- Nicolas Tagliafico
- Leandro Paredes
- Rodrigo De Paul
- Enzo Fernandez
- Alexis Mac Allister
- Lautaro Martinez
- Julian Alvarez
Messi remains the headline attraction heading into the tournament and could potentially be making his final FIFA World Cup appearance. Argentina’s experienced core gives the reigning champions one of the strongest squads entering 2026.
France’s 2018 Champions Return for Another World Cup
France also brings several experienced winners from its 2018 FIFA World Cup title-winning squad. Led by Kylian Mbappe, Les Bleus once again enter the tournament as one of the favorites.
France World Cup Winners Playing in 2026
- Kylian Mbappe
- Ousmane Dembele
- Lucas Hernandez
- Benjamin Pavard
- Marcus Thuram
- Presnel Kimpembe
- Steven Nzonzi
- Florian Thauvin
Mbappe continues to be one of the faces of international soccer and could become one of the few players ever to win multiple World Cups as a star player.
Germany’s Remaining 2014 Champion
Germany’s golden generation from the 2014 FIFA World Cup has mostly retired from international competition, but one legendary figure remains.
Germany World Cup Winners Playing in 2026
- Manuel Neuer
The veteran goalkeeper continues to add to his legendary career and brings leadership and experience to Germany’s squad for another World Cup campaign.
How Many Former World Cup Winners Are Playing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
A total of 22 players who have previously won the FIFA World Cup are participating in the 2026 tournament.
The breakdown includes:
- 13 players from Argentina’s 2022-winning squad
- 8 players from France’s 2018-winning squad
- 1 player from Germany’s 2014-winning squad
The presence of so many former champions adds even more star power and experience to what is expected to be one of the most watched FIFA World Cups in history.
Can Lionel Messi Win Another World Cup?
One of the biggest storylines entering the tournament is whether Lionel Messi can lead Argentina to back-to-back World Cup titles. Argentina has remained one of the strongest teams in international soccer since winning in Qatar, and Messi continues to perform at a high level despite being in the later stages of his career.
At the same time, France and Kylian Mbappe will be chasing another championship after reaching the 2022 World Cup Final.
With legendary veterans, rising stars, and returning champions all competing in 2026, the FIFA World Cup promises to deliver another unforgettable tournament.