Remember how many times I’ve told you that the sports world was merging with the luxury world in a way far beyond just wearing a brand on? We’ve seen NFL, NBA, and MLB players make their arrivals a major part of their personal brand and overall sponsorship appeal, and now, on the world’s largest stage, the players of the World Cup have taken it to the next level.
And before, this was more of an “us” thing; we were the ones reporting on the bags, but now it’s an “everyone” thing. My entire feed was filled with a dissection of the World Cup players’ bags. I am thrilled to see the attention on bags, which has been our little section of the internet for over 20 years.
And there is a reason why this is becoming covered; it’s hard to miss. It’s a notable moment in the luxury world, with a focus on bags, not just on women, but on men. And men in sports, not men in fashion. That seems like a silly notion to share, but it makes a big difference in how bags are received by people (again, not just the people in fashion). Bags that aren’t just the large carryall ‘intended for men,’ but also messenger bags, pouches, and the most coveted Chanel bags out there right now, which we’ve seen on women as well.
This World Cup is bringing nations together, players together, and bags to the forefront of the world stage. And I’m here for it. From the most expensive and rarest to the practical yet statement-making, this is your roundup of the best bags from many nations attending the World Cup 2026.
Portugal
We kick it off (pun intended) with the Portugal team and star Cristiano Ronaldo. The suit game was on point, designed by Portuguese brand Sacoor Brothers. Ronaldo opted for a Gucci duffle, clean, classic, and sporty.
France
The majority of the bag conversation revolves around France’s team, and it’s for good reason. Overwhelmingly, the team carried French brands, with a lot of attention to the Chanel x Pharrell Williams Suede Lambskin XXL Flap Bag and plenty of Hermès and Louis Vuitton. A single Bottega Veneta bag was thrown in, and while it was on point style-wise, it was off-brand for France.
Spain
In a major partnership moment, Loewe announced it was the official partner for the Spanish National Football Team. So we are being blessed with seeing SO MANY Amazonas!
The Democratic Republic of Congo
One of the most meaningful arrivals came courtesy of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Making their first World Cup appearance since 1974, the team arrived in custom suits and matching travel bags by Congolese designer JMAKxPARIS, with leopard-inspired details that paid homage to both the team’s nickname, Les Léopards, and the squad that last competed on football’s biggest stage more than 50 years ago.
While the rare and expensive bags have gathered a lot of attention, this was one of the few arrivals that felt deeply personal. The Congolese designer and team used fashion to tell a story about national pride, heritage, and a long-awaited return to the World Cup.
Argentina
While we didn’t get a Messi image with a bag, which all Argentinian fans would love, we did see the casual Adidas track suit paired with some great bags. Again, Hermès HACs had a moment alongside Louis Vuitton. I mostly want to know what the leather water carrier was… it looked custom, and many team members were carrying it.
Norway
A more in-depth post will come on Norwegian standout Erling Haaland, because his Hermès rotation looks more like an auction house collection worthy of an entire event.
USA
While I have plenty of USA pride, the bag game was pretty weak. My favorite was seeing this buttery soft Loewe Flamenco backpack.
Netherlands
Against the backdrop of many of their arrival shots, the Oranje came to make a statement on and off the field. From the insane Chrome Hearts fit with all the right orange touches to the Hermès charm to the Chanel Large Shopping bags, this team came to play.
Japan
Can we take a moment to thank the Japanese team and fans who left the stadium and locker room in pristine condition? We could all learn a thing or two from them.
Morocco
Unlike some of the tournament’s more street style arrivals, Morocco kept things classic. The Atlas Lions arrived in tailored navy suits by Carlo Pignatelli with red ties and embroidered Moroccan flag details, a fitting look for a team that enters the tournament with something few nations have: the expectation of building on a historic World Cup semifinal run. They are no longer a Cinderella story, but rather a team to watch.
Curaçao
Curaçao may be one of the tournament’s smallest nations, but simply qualifying for the World Cup marked a historic achievement for the Caribbean island. With a population of just over 150,000 people, the team has quickly become one of the tournament’s most compelling underdog stories.
