sports
Fashion goals: World Cup’s style tournament has already kicked off
From France’s catwalk looks to Virgil van Dijk’s classic approach, these are the teams and players to watch
TL;DR
- The 2026 World Cup is seeing a significant rise in fashion's influence on football.
- Teams and players are making style statements through their training gear, travel outfits, and suits.
- Brands like Loewe, Gabriela Hearst, Patta, and Drake's Nocta are partnering with teams.
- Players such as Jules Koundé, Kylian Mbappé, Lamine Yamal, and Virgil van Dijk are noted for their fashion sense.
- Social media platforms like Instagram are crucial in showcasing player style to fans.
- Specific team styles highlighted include the Netherlands' streetwear-inspired gear, the US team's coordinated suits, England's Jude Bellingham's tasteful ensembles, Spain's fashion-forward Loewe suits, Germany's understated 'dads-on-tour' look, and France's stylish arrivals.
- Japan's team sported suits with asymmetrical waistcoats and Yuto Nagatomo added a traditional headband, while in Mexico they received cowboy hats.
- Dominik Szoboszlai, though Hungary did not qualify, was noted for a high-risk, high-reward fashion choice.