By Desmond Nleya
The LEGO Group has unveiled an exciting global collaboration with four of football’s biggest stars—Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Vinícius Júnior—bringing the spirit of the beautiful game into homes around the world.
Timed ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, the collaboration introduces a fresh range of LEGO® Editions sets designed to celebrate football through creativity, imagination, and play. Fans of all ages can now build detailed models inspired by their favorite players, each capturing defining moments, personal styles, and hidden “Easter eggs” that reflect their journeys.
The launch also features a special reveal of the four superstars building the LEGO® Editions FIFA World Cup™ Official Trophy set, available globally through LEGO stores, LEGO.com, and selected retailers. More exclusive content featuring the players is expected in the coming months.
Each football icon shared their excitement about being transformed into LEGO form. Cristiano Ronaldo described the experience as an honour, expressing enthusiasm about fans exploring his story through building. Kylian Mbappé emphasized the importance of dreaming big and inspiring young people, while Lionel Messi highlighted the parallels between football and LEGO play—both rooted in creativity, resilience, and growth. Vinícius Júnior celebrated the fusion of passion and imagination, hoping the sets inspire fans to chase their own football dreams.
The collection includes “Football Highlights” sets (ages 10+), each designed around a letter-shaped base tied to the player’s name and national identity. These sets incorporate jersey numbers, national colours, collectible plaques, and LEGO minifigures. Ronaldo’s set features an “R” design in Portugal’s colours, Mbappé’s “M” reflects France with his number 10, Messi’s version highlights Argentina’s iconic style, and Vinícius Júnior’s “V” bursts with Brazilian flair.
For collectors seeking more immersive builds, the “Football Legend” series offers larger display models of Ronaldo and Messi. These sets include multiple pose options—such as Ronaldo’s famous “Siuuu” celebration or bicycle kick, and Messi’s signature goal celebrations or dribbling motion—along with enhanced design elements and new components.
A standout addition is the LEGO® Editions Lionel Messi – Celebration set, a premium 3D wall art piece made up of over 1,400 elements. Designed for older fans, it captures Messi’s iconic victory pose and features detailed references to his legendary career.
According to Julia Goldin, Chief Marketing and Product Officer at the LEGO Group, the initiative aims to merge football and creativity in a way that inspires families and young fans worldwide. Beyond the sets, LEGO’s broader football programme will include interactive fan experiences such as pop-up zones, a LEGO Wall of Fame for custom jersey designs, and Brick Kickers—an interactive game blending football with digital play.
With pre-orders now open, the LEGO® Editions range marks a bold step in connecting sport, storytelling, and creativity—giving fans everywhere a chance to build their dream team, one brick at a time.
