FIFA World Cup 26: What football's biggest stars are wearing
The beautiful game meets beautiful watchmaking.
The world's best footballers have arrived on the biggest stage for FIFA World Cup 26. From luxury heavyweights like Rolex, Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet to unexpected everyday favourites, these are the watches worn by some of the stars hoping to lift the sport’s most coveted trophy.
Ousmane Dembélé
France's electric winger is known for his speed and agility, making the Richard Mille RM 67-02 a fitting choice. Designed with athletes in mind, the ultra-lightweight timepiece is built for performance and comfort, reflecting Dembélé’s dynamic style of play.
Lamine Yamal
At just 18, Lamine Yamal is already one of football's brightest stars. His choice of the newly launched Patek Philippe Cubitus showcases confidence and sophistication beyond his years. Crafted in rose gold, it blends modern design with timeless luxury.
Eberechi Eze
While many footballers gravitate towards high-end luxury brands, Eberechi Eze keeps things refreshingly simple. His Casio proves that style isn't always about price tags, making him perhaps the most relatable watch collector on this list.
Vinícius Júnior
Brazil's flair and creativity are perfectly mirrored by Vinícius Júnior’s watch choice. The Royal Oak Chronograph is instantly recognisable thanks to its iconic octagonal bezel and sporty design, making it a modern classic for one of football's most exciting talents.
Bernardo Silva
Bernardo Silva's game is built on precision, intelligence and consistency—qualities that also define the Royal Oak 15500ST. Clean, versatile and effortlessly stylish, it's a watch that quietly commands attention.
Lionel Messi
Like Messi himself, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual doesn't need to shout to be recognised. Elegant, reliable and universally admired, it represents timeless excellence and proves that sometimes the simplest designs leave the biggest impression.
Kai Havertz
Nicknamed "The President's Watch," the Rolex Day-Date is synonymous with success. Kai Havertz’s Everose gold example offers a blend of luxury and understated refinement, perfectly suited to one of Germany's most technically gifted players.
Virgil van Dijk
As one of the game's most commanding defenders, Virgil van Dijk favours a watch that combines sportiness with practicality. The Aquanaut Travel Time features a dual-time complication ideal for a footballer who spends much of his life travelling between countries and competitions.
Who Wins the Watch World Cup?
If this were a watch tournament, there would be fierce competition. The cutting-edge Richard Mille represents modern innovation, the Royal Oaks deliver sporting prestige, while Patek Philippe offers unrivalled horological pedigree. Yet, just as on the pitch, there can only be one winner—and the choice is entirely down to personal taste. Which nation takes home your World Cup watch trophy?
