As the 2026 FIFA World Cup takes centre stage across the USA, Canada and Mexico, football fans around the world are focusing on the action on the pitch. For watch enthusiasts, however, the tournament offers another fascinating spectacle - the luxury watches worn by some of the game's biggest names.
From Rolex and Patek Philippe to Richard Mille and Jacob & Co., modern footballers have become some of the world's most influential watch collectors. Whether arriving at team hotels, attending press conferences or sharing behind-the-scenes moments on social media, many players are showcasing timepieces that are every bit as impressive as their performances.
Over the last two decades, luxury watches have become an important part of football culture. Today's elite players are global celebrities, and many have developed a genuine passion for horology alongside their sporting careers.
While sponsorship deals certainly play a role, many footballers have built extensive personal collections featuring some of the most desirable watches ever produced. The World Cup provides a unique opportunity to see these collections on display as players from across the globe gather for the sport's biggest event.
As one of football's brightest stars and a long-standing Hublot ambassador, Kylian Mbappé is frequently seen wearing the brand's iconic Big Bang collection.
The Hublot Big Bang Unico King Gold, with its bold design and in-house chronograph movement, perfectly reflects the modern, athletic image that has made Mbappé one of the most marketable players in world football.
Hublot's strong links with football have helped the brand become a familiar sight throughout major international tournaments, making Mbappé one of the most recognisable watch ambassadors in the sport. As both the brand and player continue to enjoy global success, the partnership remains one of the most prominent collaborations between luxury watchmaking and professional football.
Cristiano Ronaldo has never been one to shy away from bold luxury watches. His collection includes some of the most extravagant timepieces ever produced, with diamond-set creations from Jacob & Co. among his most recognisable choices.
One standout is the Jacob & Co. Caviar Tourbillon, a watch that combines high-complication watchmaking with an extraordinary display of precious stones. Designed to capture attention from every angle, it perfectly complements Ronaldo's larger-than-life presence both on and off the pitch.
His passion for luxury watches extends far beyond a single brand. Over the years, he has been spotted wearing rare Rolex Daytonas, diamond-encrusted GMT-Masters and bespoke Jacob & Co. creations produced exclusively for his collection. With a career built on record-breaking achievements, global fame and relentless ambition, Ronaldo's choice of timepieces reflects the same commitment to excellence and exclusivity that has defined his success.
Few athletes command the respect enjoyed by Lionel Messi, and his watch collection reflects a similar level of prestige. Among the standout pieces associated with the Argentine legend is the Rolex Daytona.
Originally designed for motorsport, the Daytona has become one of the most sought-after luxury sports watches in the world. Its timeless design, exceptional reliability and strong collectability make it a fitting choice for a player widely regarded as one of football's greatest-ever talents.
The model's enduring popularity among collectors mirrors Messi's own legacy, with both continuing to set the standard in their respective fields.
Neymar's relationship with Richard Mille is well documented, with the Brazilian star regularly seen wearing some of the brand's most exclusive models. His partnership with the Swiss watchmaker has helped make Richard Mille a favourite among elite athletes.
One of the standout pieces in his collection is the RM 68-01 Tourbillon, featuring a hand-painted movement inspired by street art. Its colourful, unconventional design makes it one of the most distinctive watches associated with any modern footballer.
Like Neymar himself, the RM 68-01 combines creativity, flair and individuality, making it a perfect reflection of his personality both on and off the pitch.
Harry Kane has also been spotted wearing one of Rolex's most talked-about recent releases, the Rolex Day-Date 36 "Puzzle Dial". Unveiled in 2023, the watch replaces traditional day and date displays with colourful puzzle-inspired elements, creating a playful departure from the classic Day-Date design.
Crafted in precious metals and produced in limited numbers, the Puzzle Dial Day-Date quickly became one of the most sought-after modern Rolex models. Its vibrant aesthetic stands in stark contrast to the traditionally conservative Day-Date, making it a favourite among collectors looking for something more unusual.
As England's captain and one of football's most recognisable figures, Kane's choice demonstrates how even established Rolex enthusiasts are increasingly drawn towards the brand's more creative and unconventional releases.
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup unfolds, luxury watches remain an intriguing part of the tournament's off-pitch story. From Kylian Mbappé's Hublot and Lionel Messi's Rolex Daytona to Cristiano Ronaldo's diamond-covered Jacob & Co. creations, the watches worn by football's biggest stars offer a fascinating glimpse into the personalities behind the players.
For collectors and football fans alike, these timepieces demonstrate how closely the worlds of elite sport and luxury watchmaking have become connected.
Whether your preference is a classic Rolex, a technically advanced Richard Mille or a highly collectible Patek Philippe, the world's best footballers continue to prove that great watches never go out of style.
