23/06/2026
RECORD BREAKER: Lionel Messi has achieved four new Guinness World Records after his historic performance in Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Austria at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Argentina captain scored twice in the group-stage match, helping the defending champions secure victory while extending his World Cup goals record to 18. Messi had already equalled Miroslav Klose’s previous all-time mark of 16 goals before moving clear with his latest brace.
According to Guinness World Records, the 38-year-old now holds the records for:
• Most FIFA World Cup goals by a player — 18
• Most FIFA World Cup matches played — 28
• Most FIFA World Cup matches won by a player — 18
• Most minutes played in FIFA World Cup history — 2,489
“We are witnessing history,” Guinness World Records said while highlighting Messi’s latest achievements.
Now appearing in his sixth World Cup since making his tournament debut in 2006, Messi continues to add to a remarkable international legacy, setting new benchmarks for goals, appearances, victories and longevity on football’s biggest stage.