Haaland, Vozinha Lead FIFA World Cup 2026 Instagram Boom As Stars Dominate Social Media

According to Ireporter Online, figures released by Sportico on Monday showed that Haaland gained an impressive 32.1 million new followers during the 39-day competition, making him the player with the largest increase on the social media platform.

The Norwegian forward’s outstanding performance on the pitch contributed to his rapid growth in popularity. Haaland scored seven goals at the tournament, finishing joint-third in the Golden Boot standings alongside England midfielder Jude Bellingham. He ended the competition behind Argentina captain Lionel Messi and eventual Golden Boot winner Kylian Mbappé.

Haaland also played a key role in Norway’s historic campaign, helping the nation reach the quarter-finals for the first time after recording their first-ever knockout-stage victory at a World Cup.

Meanwhile, Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha became one of the tournament’s biggest surprises after ranking second in Instagram growth.

The veteran goalkeeper gained 29.2 million followers after his remarkable display against eventual champions Spain during the group stage. Vozinha produced seven saves, earned the Man of the Match award and helped Cape Verde secure a memorable goalless draw against Spain.

Reports indicate that 14 million of his new followers came within just four days of the match, highlighting the global attention generated by his performance.

Bellingham finished third on the list after adding 12 million followers, while Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo recorded an increase of 11.4 million followers to rank fourth.

Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal completed the top five after gaining 11 million new followers during the competition.

Despite ranking fourth in follower growth, Ronaldo remains the most-followed footballer and athlete on Instagram, with more than 677 million followers. Messi follows behind with over 514 million followers.

Brazil forward Neymar, who was potentially featuring in his final World Cup, gained 7.7 million followers to place sixth, narrowly ahead of Messi, who added 7.5 million new followers.

Other players who featured among the top Instagram gainers included Mexico’s 17-year-old midfielder Gilberto Mora, who attracted 6.6 million followers, France winger Michael Olise with 5.7 million, and Brazilian forward Endrick with 5.6 million.

The figures highlight how the 2026 FIFA World Cup not only produced memorable football moments but also significantly boosted the global popularity and digital influence of several players.