The 13 Fastest Footballers in the World in 2026

The Top Speedsters in Football for 2026

Modern football demands more than just skill; players need exceptional athleticism to outpace opponents, whether it's dribbling past defenders or recovering on defense. Speed stands out as a key advantage, allowing players to reach the ball faster and execute attacks or defensive moves with greater effectiveness.

This piece explores the fastest footballers today, highlighting their clubs, playing styles, and how they use speed to impact matches. But first, let's break down what influences player speed and how it’s measured in football.

What Shapes a Player's Speed?

Speed comes from a combination of factors, including:

• Genetic makeup
• Training methods and technique
• Muscle fiber composition
• Ability to accelerate
• Stride length and frequency

These elements together determine an athlete's sprinting ability.

Measuring Speed in Football

Players' speed is gauged through several means such as sprint tests over distances like 10m, 20m, and 50m, running with the ball, and monitoring during live gameplay. Tools like GPS trackers and stopwatches help record these figures accurately during training and matches.

The Fastest Footballers Ranked From 13 to 1

13. Achraf Hakimi – 36.48 km/h

Achraf Hakimi, a Moroccan full-back for Paris Saint-Germain, is known for his rapid bursts down the flank. His 36.48 km/h top speed aids both his attacking runs and defensive transitions, making him a vital asset on both ends.

12. Alphonso Davies – 36.51 km/h

The Canadian left-back Alphonso Davies plays for Bayern Munich. Recorded at 36.51 km/h during Bundesliga action, his quick acceleration helps him cover ground rapidly, whether chasing back or surging forward.

11. Ousmane Dembele – 36.6 km/h

Ousmane Dembele found new momentum after moving from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain in August 2023. At 27 years old, his speed of 36.6 km/h complements his dribbling and goal-scoring, highlighted by a streak of hat-tricks in consecutive matches this season.

10. Karim Adeyemi – 36.65 km/h

Karim Adeyemi, a forward for Borussia Dortmund, emerged as the Bundesliga’s fastest player at 36.65 km/h. Born in Munich in 2002, he boasts a successful career starting in Austria before making his mark in Germany.

9. Amadou Onana – 36.65 km/h

Defensive midfielder Amadou Onana combines height (6 feet 5 inches) with impressive speed, clocked at 36.65 km/h. Born in Senegal but representing Belgium internationally, Onana has played across top European leagues, now featuring in the English Premier League.

8. Anthony Gordon – 36.68 km/h

Anthony Gordon operates as a winger for Newcastle United. Since debuting for Everton’s senior squad, Gordon's pace of 36.68 km/h has made him England’s fastest player, using his speed to trouble defenders regularly.

7. Matheus Nunes – 36.7 km/h

Matheus Nunes, now with Manchester City, was timed at 36.7 km/h in a match against Brighton. Originally from Brazil but representing Portugal, his blend of strength and speed helps him deliver incisive passes and drive forward effectively.

6. Dominik Szoboszlai – 36.76 km/h

The Hungarian midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai, signed by Liverpool in 2023, reached a top speed of 36.76 km/h. Besides being the fastest to play at Anfield, he quickly became a chance-creating force in the Premier League.

5. Pedro Neto – 36.86 km/h

Pedro Neto, a Portuguese winger now at Chelsea, moved from Wolverhampton for over £53 million. His speed of 36.86 km/h shines during quick counterattacks and tight situations on the pitch.

4. Chiedozie Ogbene – 36.93 km/h

Despite less fame, Chiedozie Ogbene impresses with a speed of 36.93 km/h. Nigerian-born but raised in Ireland, he’s currently with Ipswich Town, though sidelined due to injury. Fans expect him to demonstrate his pace once fit.

3. Kyle Walker – 37.31 km/h

Kyle Walker has built a reputation as one of Europe’s swiftest defenders. With a top speed of 37.31 km/h recorded at Manchester City, he played a key role in multiple league titles and a Champions League win. Currently on loan at AC Milan, Walker remains a significant speed threat.

2. Micky van de Ven – 37.38 km/h

Micky van de Ven, a Dutch centre-back at Tottenham Hotspur, clocks 37.38 km/h, making him the fastest player in the Premier League. His dynamic runs forward add an extra dimension to his defensive duties.

1. Kylian Mbappé – 38.00 km/h

The French forward Kylian Mbappé tops the list with a staggering 38.00 km/h. Now at Real Madrid after leaving PSG, his blistering speed combined with sharp finishing makes him one of the deadliest attackers globally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the fastest footballer in the world?

Kylian Mbappé currently holds that title, reaching speeds up to 38.00 km/h.

Who holds the Premier League speed record?

Micky van de Ven is the Premier League's fastest player, recorded at 37.38 km/h.

How can footballers improve their speed?

Improving speed involves sprint drills covering 10 to 30 meters, explosive strength exercises like squats and lunges, and plyometric movements such as box jumps. Training consistently two to three times a week, paired with proper rest, usually leads to noticeable improvement.

Why is speed important in football?

Speed helps create separation from defenders and recover lost ground. Attackers use it to beat defenders in one-on-one situations, while wingers rely on pace to stretch defenses and deliver effective crosses.