Cuban Heels and Vintage Kits: The 2026 World Cup Style Report

Jules Koundé to Jackson Irvine. A guide to the best-dressed players competing across North America.

WRITER: Graeme Campbell

Since its inception, the World Cup has been associated with style-defining moments that have captivated fans and become part of the sport’s collective memory. Take Pelé in 1970, who orchestrated the first true “influencer” moment by pausing to tie his laces and forcing a worldwide closeup of his sparkling PUMA King cleats. Four years later, Johan Cruyff cemented his rockstar status in the 1974 final, his gold chain swinging as he wore a custom two-stripe jersey in a defiant stand against team sponsors.

The relentless gaze of social media and 24/7 news cycles has ushered in a new era in which a player’s style influence extends far beyond what they wear on the pitch. In the past, appearances at Fashion Week were a rare curiosity; today, they’ve become part of the modern footballer’s calendar. Football might not yet be at basketball’s level when it comes to entrance outfits, but players have become adept at ensuring the right eyeballs land on their outfits—whether through carefully curated social media grids, collaborations with stylists or even “burner” accounts that offer a more candid look at their daily wardrobe rotations.

With the 2026 tournament officially here, below, a curated starting lineup—with the rule being one player from each nation—of the most stylish players playing across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Jules Koundé's style sits at the intersection of streetwear and luxury.

Jackson Irvine brings a relaxed aesthetic to his wardrobe, inspired by his laidback Australian background.

Style is such a vital component of Nick Woltemade's personal life that his dedicated Instagram account routinely spurs discourse across social media.

Scottish star Scott McTominay has upped his style credentials since heading south to join Napoli.

David Alaba effortlessly shifts from minimalist luxury to statement streetwear.

Son Heung-min is beloved across South Korea, inspiring his fellow countrymen on and off the pitch with his perfectly styled outfits.

Style is so central to Timothy Weah's identity that he launched the brand Arkyvs in 2021.

Amadou Onana interest in contemporary culture is visible in his outfits off the pitch as well as his artistry under the name 24AM.

Since arriving in Milan, Rafael Leão has become one of the sport's best-dressed players.

Although only a few years younger than most of his peers, Lamine Yamal represents a new generation of football superstar, collecting streetwear and luxury pieces alongside rare Pokémon cards.