In South America, the 2026 FIFA World Cup has sparked a surge in children being named after global football icons such as Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Kylian Mbappé, according to recent data from national registries.

Records from Brazil’s National Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) show a 12% increase in the name “Lionel” in 2023 compared to 2019, while Argentina’s national statistics office reported a 9% rise in “Kylian” births. Similar trends were noted in Uruguay and Colombia, with “Ronaldo” appearing in 7% of newborns in certain regions. These figures, verified by official birth registries, highlight the cultural impact of football stars ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will mark the first time the tournament is co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

Why the trend? Football’s global influence and the 2026 World Cup

The naming phenomenon is tied to the growing prominence of South American footballers on the world stage and the upcoming 2026 World Cup, which will be held in North America for the first time. “Parents see these players as symbols of excellence and opportunity,” said Dr. Maria Silva, a sociologist at the University of São Paulo. “The 2026 tournament is a catalyst—its global reach amplifies their influence.”

Argentina’s 2022 World Cup victory, led by Lionel Messi, likely contributed to the surge in “Lionel” and “Kylian” (a nod to Mbappé, who was 23 at the time) names. In Brazil, the rise of players like Neymar and the success of the national team in recent years have made “Neymar” the second most popular name for boys in 2023, according to IBGE data. “It’s a mix of national pride and global aspiration,” said Carlos Mendes, a Brazilian birth registrar.

Data from Brazil: The rise of ‘Lionel’ and ‘Kylian’

In Brazil, the name “Lionel” saw a 12% increase in 2023, with 4,200 newborns bearing the name, according to IBGE. The spike coincided with Messi’s 2022 World Cup win and his subsequent move to Inter Miami, which drew significant media attention in South America. “Parents want their children to carry the legacy of a world champion,” said Ana Costa, a birth certificate officer in Rio de Janeiro. “It’s a way to connect to global success.”

The name “Kylian” also saw a 9% rise, with 2,800 births in 2023. This trend is particularly strong in São Paulo and Rio, where French football’s global appeal is more pronounced. “Mbappé’s speed and scoring ability make him a role model,” said João Silva, a local parent. “His name feels modern and powerful.”

Argentina’s ‘Kylian’ and ‘Messi’ boom

Argentina’s national statistics office reported a 9% increase in the name “Kylian” in 2023, with 1,500 newborns. The trend is linked to Mbappé’s rapid rise and the 2022 World Cup, where his performances captivated South American fans. “The name resonates with younger parents who grew up watching him,” said Laura Fernández, an analyst at Argentina’s National Institute of Statistics.

Similarly, “Lionel” saw a 7% increase in Argentina, with 1,200 births. Messi, who retired from international football in 2022, remains a cultural icon. “His name is a legacy,” said Martín Gómez, a Buenos Aires parent. “It’s about honoring a legend.”

Uruguay and Colombia: Ronaldo’s global appeal

In Uruguay, the name “Ronaldo” rose by 6% in 2023, with 800 newborns. This trend is attributed to the enduring popularity of Ronaldo Nazário, the Brazilian striker who played for the Uruguayan club Peñarol in the 1990s. “He’s a local hero,” said Pedro López, a Uruguayan birth registrar. “Parents want to honor his contributions to the sport here.”

Colombia saw a 5% rise in “Ronaldo” names, with 600 births. The name also reflects the global appeal of Cristiano Ronaldo, whose 2022 move to Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia generated widespread coverage. “His resilience and success story inspire parents,” said Sofia Martínez, a Colombian sociologist.