FIFA World Cup 2026: Why The Golden Boot Race Could Be The Toughest Yet

The 2026 Golden Boot race could be the toughest yet, with Lionel Messi (3 goals), Kylian Mbappe, Harry Kane, and Erling Haaland (2 each) all firing early. The expanded 48-team format offers more matches and weaker opponents, helping forwards boost tallies. Dark horses like Balogun and Havertz also feature, making this a wide-open contest.