[Sportschosun Jang Jong-ho] As the 2026 FIFA World Cup heats up, another competition away from the pitch is also drawing attention.
A 'WAG Power List' that ranks the influence of the wives and girlfriends of sports stars (WAGs) has been released, attracting strong interest from fans.
The British outlet Daily Mail published its own ranking of the spouses and partners of world-class football players taking part in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The media said the list was based not only on whether they are linked to famous players, but also on factors such as personal wealth, social media influence, brand endorsement deals, and cultural impact.
The image of WAGs has changed significantly from the past, when they were seen as quiet supporters standing behind the players. Today, World Cup WAGs are regarded as independent influencers with tens of millions of followers and collaborations with global brands.
First place went to Antonela Roccuzzo, 38, the wife of Argentine football star Lionel Messi, 38. With nearly 40 million Instagram followers, she has built powerful commercial influence through collaborations with luxury jewelry brands, sportswear companies, and beauty firms. Analysts say her strategy of protecting her private life rather than seeking excessive exposure has actually boosted her brand value.
Second place went to Georgina Rodriguez, 32, the partner of Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo, 41. She has gained global recognition through more than 55 million social media followers and the success of the Netflix reality series 'I Am Georgina,' but her excessive exposure and image centered on lavish wealth were seen as factors that lowered her score.
Third place went to Tolami Benson, 25, the partner of England forward Bukayo Saka, 24. As a fashion influencer and PR professional, she has been praised for a polished style that sets her apart from the traditional British WAG image.
Fourth place went to Mirana Dambra, 25, the partner of U.S. national team player Brenden Aaronson, 25. As a social media influencer and former athlete, she was cited as a symbol of the younger generation's commercialization of soccer in the United States, thanks to her blend of sports and lifestyle content.
Fifth place went to Mishel Gerzig, 29, the wife of Belgian national team goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, 34. The Israeli model had been active in the European fashion scene even before her marriage, and she has also been praised for taking an active role in social causes such as improving awareness of mental health.
Daily Mail analyzed that the ranking shows how modern football has expanded into a brand not only for players themselves, but also for their families and partners. It also emphasized that interest in the private lives, fashion, and lifestyles of star players is growing among football fans around the world, including not only English-speaking countries but also Africa and Asia.
However, because the ranking was independently compiled by a media outlet rather than an official institution, debate over its objectivity continues among fans.
Jang Jong-ho bellho@sportschosun.com
