The 2026 FIFA World Cup concluded on Sunday with Spain emerging as world champions after edging Argentina 1-0 in a closely contested final at New York New Jersey Stadium. Following the final, FIFA also confirmed the tournament’s individual award winners.
La Roja secured the World Cup for the second time, adding to their maiden triumph achieved in South Africa in 2010. Luis de la Fuente’s men also entered the record books as the first team to win the World Cup while conceding only one goal throughout the competition.
Argentina, captained by Lionel Messi in what is widely expected to be his last World Cup, settled for second place after defeat in the final. England finished third after defeating France 6-4 in an entertaining third-place playoff.
Aside from the team achievements, a number of players earned recognition for their exceptional displays during the month-long tournament.
Below are the winners of the major awards presented at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
World Cup winners
- Champions: Spain
- Runners-up: Argentina
- Third place: England
- Fourth place: France
“Golden Ball” (Best Player)
Winner: Rodri (Spain)
Spain midfielder Rodri claimed the “Golden Ball” after producing a series of outstanding performances at the heart of La Roja’s midfield during their successful campaign. His leadership, calmness and ability to dictate play proved instrumental in Spain’s march to a second World Cup title.
“Golden Boot” (Top Scorer)
Winner: Kylian Mbappe (France)
Mbappe won the “Golden Boot” after netting 10 goals in eight appearances, becoming the first player to finish as the World Cup’s leading scorer at two successive editions. He also strengthened his status as the men’s all-time leading World Cup scorer with 22 career goals.
“Golden Glove” (Best Goalkeeper)
Winner: Unai Simón (Spain)
Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón received the “Golden Glove” after playing a decisive role in his country’s triumphant campaign. Spain allowed just one goal in seven matches, while Simón established a new World Cup record by going 650 consecutive minutes without conceding.
Best Young Player
Winner: Pau Cubarsí (Spain)
Spain defender Pau Cubarsí was named Best Young Player following a string of composed and authoritative displays in central defence. The teenager played a vital part in Spain’s record-setting defensive run, helping his side concede only once on their way to lifting the trophy.
FIFA Fair Play Award
Winner: Netherlands
The Netherlands received the FIFA Fair Play Award for their exemplary discipline and sportsmanship during the tournament.
Full list of 2026 FIFA World Cup award winners
- World Cup champions: Spain
- Runners-up: Argentina
- Third place: England
- Fourth place: France
- “Golden Ball”: Rodri (Spain)
- “Golden Boot”: Kylian Mbappe (France)
- “Golden Glove”: Unai Simón (Spain)
- Best Young Player: Pau Cubarsí (Spain)
- FIFA Fair Play Award: Netherlands
