World Cup 2026: What are the special sleeve patches?
Viewers of the 2026 World Cup have spotted unique golden patches on some players' shirts. Here is what they signify and who qualifies to wear them.
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During the 2026 World Cup, eagle-eyed fans may have noticed unique golden patches on the sleeves of certain players, including England captain Harry Kane. These badges distinguish specific achievements from previous tournaments.
The golden patch is reserved for players who have previously won the Golden Boot at a World Cup. Harry Kane earned his in 2018, while France's Kylian Mbappe (2022) and Colombia's James Rodriguez (2014) also wear the badge for their respective top-scorer honors.
Beyond individual awards, there are several other identifiers. Teams that have won the tournament previously wear a gold World Cup badge, while debutants sport a patch labeled 'Debut Fifa World Cup'. Veterans who have played in five or more World Cups are recognized with a 'legacy' patch featuring their country's flag.
Goalkeepers are also included, with a special crest featuring a glove awarded to those who have previously been named the best shot-stopper at a finals tournament.
These patches are part of a long-term project between FIFA and trading card company Topps. Once the matches are over, these match-worn shirts will be collected to serve as physical memorabilia for fans, marking a shift in FIFA's licensing strategy leading toward 2031.