Messi's Record-Breaking Run Overshadows Absent Crypto Industry

Lionel Messi is dominating the 2026 FIFA World Cup, shattering records and leading the Golden Boot race. At 39 years old, he's scored at least 8 goals in the tournament so far, pushing his all-time World Cup goal tally to 19, surpassing Miroslav Klose's previous record of 16 career World Cup goals.

Messi's creative output has been equally impressive. He's generated plays leading to 20 shots on goal during the tournament, making him the first player since 1966 to achieve such metrics across multiple World Cup editions. His six consecutive knockout-stage match goals span two tournaments: four in the 2022 World Cup knockouts and two more in 2026.

The 2026 World Cup has essentially become Messi's farewell tour, but one thing is missing - the crypto industry that dominated the conversation in 2022. No major crypto sponsorships are dominating the airwaves, and fan tokens from Socios have lost significant value after initial hype cycles. Regulatory scrutiny increased, and the core value proposition of voting on minor club decisions never resonated enough to sustain long-term demand.