French superstar Kylian Mbappe left fans talking after appearing in a slightly different jersey from his teammates during France’s 3-1 victory over Senegal in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Mbappe, who scored twice to help Les Bleus begin their campaign on a winning note, was quick to remind the world why he remains one of football’s biggest stars. However, many supporters noticed something unusual about his kit and wondered why it was different from the rest of the French squad.
The Special Badge Behind Mbappe’s Unique Jersey
The Real Madrid forward is wearing a special Golden Boot patch on his sleeve after finishing as the top scorer at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Mbappe netted eight goals during the tournament, including a memorable hat-trick in the final against Argentina, although France eventually lost on penalties.
FIFA has introduced the badge for the 2026 tournament to honour Golden Boot winners from the last three World Cups.
Other Stars Also Enjoying the Privilege
England captain Harry Kane and Colombian playmaker James Rodriguez are among the players who will also wear the Golden Boot patch after winning the award in 2018 and 2014 respectively.
But the Golden Boot badge is not the only special feature introduced at this year’s World Cup.
New Patches Introduced at the 2026 World Cup
Players making their World Cup debuts are receiving a special debut patch. Young stars such as Lamine Yamal and Erling Haaland have already been seen wearing it.
Goalkeepers who have previously won the Golden Glove award are also being recognized. Argentina’s Emiliano Martinez, Germany’s Manuel Neuer and Belgium’s Thibaut Courtois are among the shot-stoppers eligible for the honour.
Messi, Ronaldo and Modric Receive Another Special Recognition
FIFA has also introduced a Legacy patch for players who have appeared in five or more World Cups. Football legends Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric, Yuto Nagatomo and Manuel Neuer are among those enjoying the distinction.
Interestingly, despite winning the Golden Ball award twice, Messi will not wear a special badge for that achievement, as FIFA has not introduced one for former winners.
Former World Champions Given Exclusive Kits
Countries that have previously lifted the World Cup trophy have also been handed special kits featuring a golden sleeve patch. Teams without a World Cup title will instead wear the standard white patch.
Among past champions, Italy are the only nation missing from the 2026 tournament after failing to qualify.
Mbappe’s stunning performance against Senegal may have grabbed the headlines, but his unique jersey has also become one of the talking points of the tournament as FIFA unveils several new traditions aimed at celebrating football’s biggest stars.