In a groundbreaking move for sports memorabilia, Lego has officially unveiled a new collection of minifigure sets that immortalize some of the football world's most iconic players. This exciting launch, inspired by the upcoming 2026 World Cup, includes highly detailed displays for Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Vini Jr., offering fans a unique way to celebrate their favorite athletes.
Innovative Designs and Personal Touches
Each minifigure set is crafted with dual-moulded technology to capture intricate details, but Lego has addressed the challenge of making these small figures the centerpiece by introducing innovative display bases. These bases are shaped like the first letter of each player's name and feature colors from their national teams, along with shirt numbers and collectible plaques displaying career statistics.
For instance, Cristiano Ronaldo's set incorporates Portugal's colors and his iconic CR7 branding, with hidden Easter eggs referencing his rise to fame. Kylian Mbappé's design recreates elements of Paris, subtly nodding to France's World Cup victories. Lionel Messi's display is built on an M-shaped brick with Argentina's colors, while Vini Jr.'s set includes a goal-scoring pose with comic book-style effects made entirely from Lego bricks.
Expanded Collections for Die-Hard Fans
Beyond the individual displays, Lego has introduced two Football Legends sets that depict Ronaldo and Messi in brick-built forms. These sets offer dual building options: Ronaldo can be assembled in his famous "Siuuu" pose or performing a bicycle kick, while Messi can be shown in a victory pose pointing at the sky or dribbling across the pitch. Each includes a printed plaque, a new football piece, and a dual-moulded face for enhanced realism.
Additionally, a larger Lionel Messi – Celebration set, comprising 1,427 pieces, is designed as 3D wall art. This elaborate display is filled with references to Messi's life and career, making it a must-have for collectors.
Insights from Lego Designers
In an exclusive interview, Lego designer Luka Grković, who worked on the Ronaldo and Mbappé sets, shared his enthusiasm. "I'm from the Lego Editions team, and as a huge football fan, being brought on to create these sets was a dream come true," he said. "The goal was to craft the ultimate collectible highlight for each player, showcasing their history, capturing dynamic moments, and featuring highly detailed minifigures. These sets are packed with references to clubs, goals, and career milestones, tailored for hardcore fans."
Pricing and Availability
The new Lego football collection offers a range of price points to suit various budgets. The FIFA World Cup Official Trophy set is priced at £159.99, and the Football set costs £99.99. The four Football Highlights displays are each £24.99, while the two Football Legends sets are £69.99. The premium Lionel Messi – Celebration set is available for £159.99.
All items will be released on May 1, but pre-orders are currently open through the official Lego website and other retailers. This launch is part of the Lego Editions line, which also includes sets based on other sports like F1 and basketball, as well as recreations of Nike trainers.
Future Prospects and Cultural Impact
While Lego has not confirmed future plans, the success of these footballer displays suggests potential expansions into other celebrity realms, such as pop stars. This initiative highlights Lego's commitment to blending sports culture with creative play, offering fans innovative ways to engage with their passions.
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, these sets are poised to become cherished collectibles, celebrating the legacy of football's greatest players through the timeless appeal of Lego bricks.
