Ahead of the 2026 World Cup, LEGO have partnered with modern day footballing icons, Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr., bringing them into the world of LEGO Editions and immortalising them in the iconic toy form.
As we get nearer to the 2026 World Cup, hype inevitably starts to build. And build is the operative word here, as LEGO follow up their previous (incredible) World Cup trophy release and 1,498-piece display ball (complete with mini stadium inside) with yet another drop that’s firmly rooted in Creative Soccer Culture, taking the term quite literally. Partnering with Messi, Ronaldo, Mbappe and Vini Jr., this latest LEGO Editions collection sees the four legendary athletes appear in LEGO minifigure form for the first time, with new sets that pay homage to each player’s sports journey and personality, including hidden easter eggs for true fans to discover.
“It’s not every day you get to be transformed into a LEGO set,” Cristiano Ronaldo explained. “I’m incredibly honoured to be part of this new lineup of LEGO Editions, alongside three other incredible players in the sport. I’m looking forward to seeing fans from all over the world discover my story and sporting heritage by building this LEGO set, blending football and creativity."
The collection offers three different sets for collectors (kids or adults – all are welcome here!). First up, the action-based ‘Football Highlights’ sets capture a cinematic snapshot of each player. These sets are built on letter-shaped bases (the first letter of the respective player), featuring colour cues from each player’s national team, jersey numbers and a collectible plaque, plus a LEGO minifigure of the player to bring the moment to life.
In addition, two “Football Legend” sets offer display-scale figures of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. Although aimed at 10+, these ones feel a little more grown up than the first set, with the aim being to enhance the building experience by offering two different ways to build their football icon.
The 854-piece CR7 model can be built with Ronaldo in the explosive “Siuuu” pose or with him performing his iconic bicycle kick. The model features a larger CR7 backdrop, a printed plaque and a brand-new co-moulded face and new football ball element.
The Messi model is made of 958 LEGO elements (now now, it’s not a competition!). Again, it can be built in two ways: one that creates the Messi figure in his signature victory pose pointing towards the sky after scoring a goal and the other a dynamic running pose that reenacts him dribbling across the pitch. The set also includes a large number 10, MESSI lettering, and printed name plaque.
Finally, completing the collection options is a Lionel Messi “Celebration” set. This one is the real showpiece. The fact it’s aimed at 14+ builders hints at its slightly more complex nature and also its positioning as a proper piece of 3D wall art. The 1,427-element set features Messi once again in his signature victory pose, pointing toward the sky. The display highlights his iconic “Number 10” striped jersey and is packed with Easter eggs that nod to his life and career.
Julia Goldin, Chief Marketing and Product Officer at the LEGO Group said: “With these new sets we’re bringing the thrill of football to life in a way that allows fans to build, create and celebrate. We wanted to capture the essence of some of today’s greatest football players, and honour what makes them special, sparking imagination and excitement in kids and families worldwide. We know everyone wants a piece of the celebration and we can't wait for fans to experience the joy of building their favourite football icon and share their passion for the game with creativity and pride.”
It may only be April, but we already know what we’re asking for for Christmas!
The six LEGO Editions building sets are available for pre-order now at LEGO.com/themes/editions
