The 2026 FIFA World Cup is here, and it's not just soccer enthusiasts who are gearing up for the biggest sporting event of the year. Fashion's elite, the top models who grace the runways, are also getting into the spirit, and their excitement is infectious.
This year's tournament, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, promises to be a spectacle like no other, with 48 teams battling it out in 104 matches. And it seems that the world of fashion and the world of football are colliding in a beautiful way.
The Fashion World's Love for Football
Vogue, the iconic fashion magazine, decided to explore this intersection by asking some of the industry's top models about their World Cup plans. The responses were a delightful mix of tradition, superstition, and pure passion for the beautiful game.
Linda Evangelista: A Superstitious Fan
Linda Evangelista, a veteran of the fashion world, has been a dedicated fan of team sports since childhood. Her love for the World Cup is deeply rooted, and she admits to being incredibly superstitious about what she wears during matches. With a heart that spans multiple nations, she'll be cheering for Canada, the USA, France, and Italy, a true testament to her global perspective.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the way her personal history intertwines with her love for the game. Growing up with limited access to TV, she developed a deep appreciation for the sports her father watched, and that passion has endured.
Adriana Lima: A Brazilian Tradition
For Adriana Lima, the World Cup is more than just a sporting event; it's a cultural phenomenon. As a Brazilian, she's born into a nation where football is ingrained in the culture, and her support for the Brazilian team, 'Os Canarinhos', is a matter of heart and heritage. The yellow jersey, a symbol of luck and the sun, is a must-wear for her during the tournament.
I find it intriguing how the World Cup brings out these nationalistic and cultural traditions. It's a beautiful display of how sports can unite a nation and its people.
Imaan Hammam: A Global Perspective
Imaan Hammam brings a unique perspective to the World Cup. With roots in Morocco, the Netherlands, and Egypt, she represents a true fusion of cultures. Her love for football is evident, and she plans to support all three nations, showcasing the beauty of the game and its ability to bring people together.
What many people don't realize is that football, or soccer as it's known in some parts, is a global language. It transcends borders and unites people from diverse backgrounds.
Aneken Zaldivar: Family Reunions and Belonging
Aneken Zaldivar's relationship with the World Cup is deeply personal. For her, it's not just about the sport; it's about the sense of community and belonging that the tournament brings. Family reunions, good food, and shared passions are at the heart of her World Cup experience.
This raises a deeper question about the role of sports in society. It's not just about the game; it's about the connections we make, the memories we create, and the sense of unity we feel.
Loli Bahia: The Magic of Paris
Loli Bahia, a true French football fan, is eagerly awaiting the chance to see Les Bleus in action. Her passion for the French team is infectious, and she plans to be in Paris if France makes it to the finals, an experience she describes as magical.
Personally, I think there's something special about the atmosphere of a World Cup final in a major city. The energy, the excitement, and the sense of collective joy are truly unique.
A Global Celebration
The World Cup is more than just a sporting event; it's a global celebration of culture, fashion, and community. It brings people together, sparks conversations, and creates memories. For these top models, it's a chance to represent their nations, their heritage, and their love for the beautiful game.
So, as we gear up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, let's remember that it's not just about the matches; it's about the stories, the traditions, and the connections we make along the way.