Is Lionel Messi faster than Cristiano Ronaldo? 3D simulation pits the two in an epic 100m track race against each other

Is Lionel Messi faster than Cristiano Ronaldo? 3D simulation pits the two in an epic 100m track race against each other

Mark Kinyanjui 20:30 - 10.09.2024

A simulation has pitted Lionel Messi in an 100 meter race against Cristiano Ronaldo to determine who is actually faster against the other.

For years, football fans have found themselves in the midst of the never-ending debate over who is the greatest player to have ever graced a football pitch.

While the older generation have been torn between Brazilian great Maradona and Pele, the more recent fanbase have had the luxury of watching Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi compete against each other and as a result, dividing opinion.

Some believe that Messi, who has won everything there is to win in football is the greatest, while others believe that Ronaldo, who has won everything except a FIFA World Cup for his county, warrants the title.

Nonetheless, both are gifted footballers in the twilights of their careers. One question however remains elusive: who would actually beat the other if they raced each other on the track?

A 3D simulation by Motion Athlete has provided a fascinating insight into this hypothetical race between the two footballing legends. The results are intriguing and reveal a clear victor when it comes to top speed on the track.

Top Speed Analysis

Cristiano Ronaldo, known for his athleticism and imposing physique, has long been celebrated for his impressive top speed.

 On the football pitch, Ronaldo can reach speeds of up to 35 km/h, and his sprinting capabilities are further enhanced on a track where his top speed can climb to 37.5 km/h. 

Based on these metrics, the simulation estimated that Ronaldo could cover 100 meters in approximately 11.39 seconds. Taking into account a reaction time of 0.18 seconds, his overall completion time for the distance would be around 11.15 seconds.

In contrast, Lionel Messi, renowned for his agility and technical brilliance, has a lower top speed. 

On the grass, Messi's maximum velocity reaches 32.5 km/h, which translates to about 35 km/h on a track. The simulation estimated Messi's average speed over 100 meters at 29.66 km/h, and with reaction time factored in, he would complete the race in about 11.96 seconds.

Simulation Results

According to Motion Athlete’s simulation, Ronaldo's superior top speed allows him to dominate the sprint race against Messi. The analysis showed that Ronaldo would surpass Messi by the 20-meter mark and maintain his lead throughout the remainder of the race.

The simulation highlights Ronaldo’s edge in straight-line speed, emphasizing that his larger stride and greater acceleration give him a distinct advantage over Messi.

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