The 2026 FIFA World Cup is upon us, 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 and magazine covers, are also getting in on the action, and their enthusiasm is infectious.
This year's tournament, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, promises to be an extraordinary spectacle with 48 teams battling it out in 104 matches. And it seems that the world of fashion and the beautiful game have more in common than you might think.
The Superfans
Vogue magazine recently asked some of the industry's top models about their World Cup plans, and the responses revealed a deep-rooted passion for the sport. From chic Parisian viewing parties to Brazilian traditions and superstitions, these models are as dedicated to their teams as any die-hard fan.
Linda Evangelista: The Superstitious Supporter
Linda Evangelista, a Canadian-American icon, embodies the spirit of a true fan. She's been watching every World Cup since childhood, and her loyalty knows no bounds. She'll be cheering for multiple teams, including Canada, her home country, and the USA, where she resides. But her superstitions take center stage: she has a strict 'what not to wear' policy based on the last game's outcome. It's a unique tradition, and one that adds an extra layer of excitement to her viewing experience.
Adriana Lima: The Brazilian Passion
Adriana Lima, a Brazilian beauty, is a passionate supporter of her country's team, 'Os Canarinhos.' For her, it's not a choice but a birthright. She'll be donning her yellow jersey, the team's lucky color, and following the games on every device she owns. The World Cup is a celebration of culture and community for Adriana, and she'll be experiencing it all, from the anthems to the flags, right here in her second home, the USA.
Imaan Hammam: The Cultural Ambassador
Imaan Hammam, with her Moroccan, Dutch, and Egyptian heritage, represents the perfect fusion of sport, culture, and fashion. She'll be supporting all three of her cultural roots, but her love for the beautiful game goes beyond nationalism. Imaan plays football for fun and appreciates the way the sport brings people together. Her approach to the World Cup is uniquely stylish, with custom looks and vintage jerseys turned into dresses. It's a fresh take on the traditional fan attire.
Aneken Zaldivar: The Family Affair
For Aneken Zaldivar, the World Cup is about more than just the game. It's a time for family reunions and a sense of belonging. Even though she's not a die-hard soccer fan, the tournament brings people together, and that's what matters most. Her family's tradition involves gathering at her grandmother's house, sharing a meal, and enjoying each other's company. It's a beautiful reminder that the World Cup is about community and connection.
Loli Bahia: The Parisian Enthusiast
Loli Bahia, a French enthusiast, is excited to see Les Bleus take to the field. She'll be cheering them on, hoping to bring that third star to their jersey. The World Cup in Paris promises to be magical, and Loli plans to be there if France makes it to the finals. Her enthusiasm is infectious, and her love for the French team is a testament to the power of football in France.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the way these models have embraced the World Cup as more than just a sporting event. It's a celebration of culture, a time for family, and a chance to connect with their roots. From superstitions to fashion-forward fan attire, these women are showing us that the beautiful game is truly universal.
So, as we gear up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, let's take a leaf out of these models' books and embrace the spirit of the game, wherever we may be watching.