The 2026 World Cup is almost here and eagle-eyed fans may be puzzled to see certain players wearing a brand-new badge on their shirts.
This summer’s showpiece tournament gets underway on June 11 with a clash between Mexico and South Africa at the iconic Estadio Azteca. It’s the first time a World Cup has been hosted by three nations (Mexico, United States and Canada). It’s also the first time 48 teams have competed at a World Cup finals - an increase from 32.
The tournament, held across 16 host cities, will conclude at the Metlife Stadium in East Rutherford on July 19, where this summer’s World Cup winners will be crowned.
While a handful of high-profile players sadly won’t be at the tournament - because their national teams failed to qualify or because of injury, including the likes of Robert Lewandowski, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Hugo Ekitike - most of the world’s best players will be present.
All eyes will be on the global superstars like Lamine Yamal and Vinicius Jr, while Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo (aged 38 and 41, respectively) will compete at a World Cup for the final time in their illustrious careers.
2026 World Cup to Feature New 'Debut Patch'
World Cup trophy
World Cup trophy
Lamine Yamal, the 18-year-old Barcelona sensation who is a contender to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or award, is one player who will be wearing a special new badge on his Spain shirt when La Roja take on Cape Verde on June 15.
Erling Haaland will have the same badge on his shirt when Norway face Iraq one day later, as will Michael Olise when France take on Senegal.
According to DAZN, players making their maiden appearance at a World Cup will wear a special new ‘Debut Patch’ on their jerseys. Already a tradition in American sports, every footballer playing in their first World Cup game will wear the badge.
As part of a new licensing deal with trading cards company Fanatics, the patch will be preserved after the tournament and included in future trading card sets.
The Fanatics exclusive trading card deal only officially starts in 2031 - Panini are the current partner - but the patches will be saved and used once the new after the new deal begins after the 2030 World Cup.
The initiative is designed to bring more attention to World Cup newbies making their first appearances in football’s most prestigious global tournament.
Because of the number of teams competing at this summer’s World Cup, expect to see plenty of ‘Debut Patches’ on shirts during the opening group matches.