“We don’t rate it”, “Bias as usual”

Lego’s World Cup advertisement featuring Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Vinicius Junior has drawn criticism from fans.

On April 2, Lego excited football enthusiasts by featuring some of the sport’s biggest stars in a commercial for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Titled ‘Everyone wants a piece,’ the video shows the four footballers attempting to place their Lego figures on a Lego version of the World Cup trophy.

Despite aiming to generate excitement for the upcoming World Cup, the advert has been criticized for perceived ‘bias.’ Some fans argue that Ronaldo and Vinicius should not be included since they have not won the World Cup. Others question FIFA’s fairness, noting the lack of African players in World Cup promotions.

One fan commented:

“We all know Ronaldo and Vinicius should not even be in consideration to put their legos on top of the World Cup cus they have not won it… unless they are being biased as usual.”

Another tweeted:

“During the World Cup.. They hardly use African players for advert, why? I thought FIFA always says it’s a fair Game.”

Some fans suggested Neymar would have been a better choice than Vinicius.

“Neymar should have been there instead of Vini,” they remarked.

Another fan was disappointed with the exclusion of Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal.

With just two months until the World Cup, these four stars will aim to lead their nations to victory. For Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, this will likely be their last appearance on the global stage as their careers near their end.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi praise Lego in World Cup advert

The Lego World Cup advertisement marks the second collaboration between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, following their joint appearance in a Louis Vuitton campaign in November 2022, just before the World Cup in Qatar.

Ronaldo, who has stated that the 2026 World Cup will be his final tournament, expressed his excitement:

“It’s not every day you get to be transformed into a Lego set! I’m incredibly honored to be part of this new lineup of Lego Editions, alongside three other incredible players in the sport. I’m looking forward to seeing fans from all over the world discover my story and sporting heritage by building this Lego set, blending football and creativity.”

Similarly, Messi commended Lego for its football-themed collaboration:

“Similar to football, Lego play is all about building and rebuilding, trying new things, learning from mistakes, and celebrating successes. I love how these Lego sets bring my on-pitch moments to life in a fun and imaginative way. I’m thrilled for fans to explore the magic of football through these sets and together celebrate the sport we all love,” the Inter Miami forward added.

If Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi participate in the 2026 World Cup, they will make history as the first players to compete in six different World Cup tournaments, surpassing the previous record of five held by them and four others.