For a sporting event that has been held for nearly 100 years, it is not surprising that there are many traditions that are followed. There are some traditions that are unique to the World Cup, while other aspects of the tournament are football traditions that make their appearance on the world stage at the FIFA World Cup every four years. Here are a few of them.

USA soccer team saluting their flag before a gameUSA soccer team saluting their flag before a game
  • Mascots: Traditionally, mascot designs at the FIFA World Cup often represent a characteristic feature or animal of the host country. The first mascot was in 1966. For the first time, the 2026 tournament had three mascots — Maple the moose (Canada), Zayu the jaguar (Mexico) and Clutch the eagle (USA) — one for each of the three host nations. See more about the World Cup Mascots.
  • Ball Design: in recent years a special ball has been designed for the World Cup. The 2026 ball was the adidas Trionda, its name and three-panel design a nod to the three host countries. See more details about the ball designs.
  • The first ball: The first ball kicked at a World Cup has traditionally been a significant event. The first ball has been kicked by the hosts in 2026, 2022, 2018, 2014, 2010 and 2006, and by the title holders in 2002 and 1998. In 2026, hosts Mexico opened the tournament against South Africa at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
  • National Anthems: as with all major international tournaments, the national anthems of each team is played before the game.
  • Entering the field: as with most international football matches, schoolchildren escort the players onto the field before each match of the World Cup.
  • Shirt Exchange: it is common for players to exchange shirts with opposition players after the game.
  • Awards: there are many awards for players and teams at the FIFA World Cup, including the best player, the top goal scorer, and the best goalkeeper.
  • Captain Prize: In 2022, the Qatar organizers presented to the winning Argentinian captain Messi a bisht, a traditional Arab cloak, at the award ceremony. It was not repeated in 2026: Spain's winning captain Rodri lifted the trophy in his team's kit after their 1–0 win over Argentina, suggesting the bisht was a one-off gesture unique to the Qatari hosts rather than a lasting tradition.
  • Champions: Spain won the 2026 World Cup, their second title, defeating Argentina 1–0 after extra time in the final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.