Lego is expanding further into sport this year by working with four of the world’s most famous footballers. The new sets celebrate Vinicius Jr, Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, and they will be released before the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. In total, seven sets have been created, including letter-shaped designs for each player. These smaller sets will cost about US$29, which is around NZ$50. There will also be larger display models of Ronaldo and Messi, priced at about US$79, or NZ$138.
Messi, who won the World Cup, will also have a special 1,427-piece 3D wall art set showing him in his famous victory pose. That set will cost about US$179, or NZ$313. Each footballer will also have a mini-figure included with the cheaper sets. Messi said Lego play is a lot like football because it involves trying new things, learning from mistakes and celebrating success. He added that he liked the way the sets turned moments from the pitch into something fun and imaginative.
Vinicius Jr said he hopes the project will also spread the message of inclusivity. He explained that creativity can bring people together, no matter where they are from or what language they speak. He also shared that, when he was younger, he did not have much, but he loved playing with Lego at school and using his imagination to build his own world. Lego, which was founded almost 100 years ago and is still privately owned, is making a big effort around the World Cup. The company has already launched a replica World Cup trophy set and plans more football activities, including fan zone experiences.
