The 2026 FIFA World Cup has introduced a new feature on team jerseys, with several special badges created by FIFA to highlight players with remarkable careers or outstanding achievements in previous World Cups.
Kylian Mbappé, Lionel Messi, and Thibaut Courtois are among the players concerned. Each wears a distinctive patch on their sleeve, but every badge represents a specific category and accomplishment.
FIFA Honors World Cup Achievements
Mbappé proudly wears the badge awarded to the winner of the 2022 World Cup Golden Boot. The French striker finished as the tournament’s top scorer in Qatar with eight goals. Lionel Messi, meanwhile, sports the “Legacy” badge, reserved for footballers who have participated in at least five World Cups. Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modrić, Manuel Neuer, and Guillermo Ochoa have also received this distinction.
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Goalkeepers have not been forgotten. Former winners of the World Cup Best Goalkeeper award, including Manuel Neuer, Thibaut Courtois, and Emiliano Martínez, wear a dedicated badge commemorating their achievement.
𝐊𝐲𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧 Mbappe wears special world Cup top scorer patch while and his French teammates will wear this special badge pic.twitter.com/cdtN5xQnC2
— The thinker man (@kwekuedilson) June 16, 2026
FIFA has also introduced recognition for newcomers. Players making their World Cup debut, such as Rayan Cherki and Michael Olise with France, wear the “Debut” badge, symbolizing their first appearance on football’s biggest stage.
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