The race for the Golden Boot at the 2026 World Cup is already intensifying, with three former winners among the contenders. England’s Harry Kane, who claimed the prize in 2018 with six goals, is vying to become only the second player to win the award twice, alongside Kylian Mbappé of France, who scored eight in 2022. James Rodríguez of Colombia, the 2014 winner with six goals, completes the trio of past Golden Boot recipients in North America.
Mbappé and Kane are both among the pre-tournament favourites, but they face stiff competition from two other global superstars. Erling Haaland of Norway is making his World Cup debut, while Argentina’s Lionel Messi – already a champion in 2022 – is seeking to add the Golden Boot to his collection. The award is decided by total goals, with assists used as a tie-breaker if players finish level.
“Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi lead Golden Boot race as World Cup 2026 heats up.”
As the group stage unfolds, each game adds new twists to the battle. The Standard noted that the early race for the top scorers honour is ‘heating up with every game’. With Kane, Mbappé, Messi and Haaland all in form, the contest promises to be one of the tournament’s defining narratives.