FIFA Honors Messi, Mbappé and Other World Cup Greats with Special Shirt Patches
FIFA has introduced special shirt patches for selected players at the current World Cup, turning the tournament into a tribute to some of football’s biggest names. The feature highlights both career milestones and individual awards from the previous World Cup in Qatar.
The most prominent example is Lionel Messi, who wore a patch marking his sixth World Cup appearance, an unprecedented achievement. The patch on Messi’s shirt reads “Legacy.” Cristiano Ronaldo and Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa are also set to receive the same recognition for reaching their sixth tournament.
FIFA is also honoring standout performers from the last World Cup with personalized patches that remind viewers who won each prize. France star Kylian Mbappé wore a patch on his sleeve commemorating his Golden Boot award from the previous tournament.
Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez was similarly recognized for his Golden Glove win in Qatar. The article notes that Martínez, a national hero for the defending champions and remembered for his crucial saves on the way to the title, also wore a special patch celebrating that achievement.
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