Six Spanish players headline the AIPS FIFA World Cup 2026 Best XI after a global vote by 370 sports journalists from 115 countries, reflecting Spain’s defensive dominance during its title-winning campaign.
Zurich | By Sayer Zaland
Spain’s commanding performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been reflected in the AIPS Best XI, with six Spanish players selected in the tournament’s all-star team following a worldwide vote by 370 sports journalists from 115 countries.
The International Sports Press Association (AIPS) announced the team in a 4-3-3 formation after Spain lifted the World Cup by defeating Argentina 1-0 in the final. Spain’s defensive excellence formed the backbone of the selection, with goalkeeper Unai Simón and defenders Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte and Marc Cucurella all making the Best XI. Midfielder Rodri also earned a place after winning FIFA’s Golden Ball award.
England midfielder Jude Bellingham, France playmaker Michael Olise, Argentina captain Lionel Messi, France striker Kylian Mbappé and Norway forward Erling Haaland completed the team. Bellingham topped the midfield voting after leading England to a third-place finish, while Mbappé was the highest-ranked forward following his tournament-leading 10 goals. Messi, voted AIPS Outstanding Player of the Tournament, secured a place after recording eight goals and four assists during Argentina’s run to the final.
AIPS said the Best XI was selected from a shortlist of more than 50 players, with voters ranking their top three choices in each position. The voting panel included AIPS members and journalists participating in the AIPS World Cup Hotline, representing 115 countries across six continents, including Afghanistan.
AIPS FIFA World Cup 2026 Best XI
Goalkeeper: Unai Simón (Spain)
Defenders: Pedro Porro (Spain), Pau Cubarsí (Spain), Aymeric Laporte (Spain), Marc Cucurella (Spain)
Midfielders: Jude Bellingham (England), Rodri (Spain), Michael Olise (France)
Forwards: Lionel Messi (Argentina), Kylian Mbappé (France), Erling Haaland (Norway)
The countries participating in the vote included Afghanistan, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Morocco, Norway, Portugal, Spain, the United Kingdom, the United States and more than 100 other nations, underscoring the global reach of the AIPS poll.