As the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off across the United States, Canada and Mexico, national teams have unveiled creative photoshoots, dramatic departures and culturally resonant preparations.
The moments have captured global attention, blending national pride, heritage and star power ahead of the expanded 48-team tournament.
Here is a curated look at the top 10 most iconic visuals making the rounds.
1. Norway’s Viking warriors
Norway’s return to the World Cup after 28 years was marked by an epic Viking-themed photoshoot on a rocky shoreline near Oslo.
Captured by photographer David Yarrow, the squad, including Erling Haaland with flowing blond hair and axe in hand, and Martin Ødegaard, posed in authentic warrior gear beside longships against a dramatic fjord backdrop.
The image, titled “The Vikings Are Coming,” has gone viral for its cinematic intensity and cultural authenticity.
2. Brazil water cannon blessing ritual
The Brazilian squad received a traditional send-off at Galeão International Airport in Rio de Janeiro, where their team aircraft was “baptised” before take-off.
The team travelled aboard a Boeing 767-300ER operated by Aeronexus and carrying the branding of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF).
As the aircraft prepared to depart, two airport fire engines created a water arch over the runway, allowing the plane to taxi through the salute.
The ceremony is a long-standing aviation tradition often reserved for special occasions.
The water salute is viewed as a symbolic blessing for the aircraft and its passengers, with many believing it brings good fortune.
3. Turkey’s large convoy
Turkey ensured the national team received a special farewell as the players’ coach journey to the airport in Istanbul was followed by a convoy of more than 100 vehicles decorated in the national colours, with horns blaring as they crossed the Bosphorus.
4. Japan’s cowboy welcome
Japan’s arrival in Mexico was greeted with flair as fans and locals presented the squad with cowboy hats amid chants and celebrations.
The light-hearted cross-cultural moment captured the spirit of the multi-nation tournament.
5. Senegal pre-departure dinner
Senegal’s national football team held a farewell dinner ahead of its departure for the World Cup in the United States.
The event took place on the pitch at the Stade Abdoulaye Wade in Diamniadio, where players, coaches and administrative staff gathered for a final send-off before travelling to the tournament.
6. Argentina plane design
In Argentina, the pale-blue-and-white plane carrying the team and Lionel Messi to Kansas City featured a decorative nod to the Inter Miami star.
Its tail was emblazoned with his famous No. 10, while three gold stars on the fuselage represented the country’s three World Cup titles.
Even the jet’s “1978” flight reference was a tribute to Argentina’s first World Cup triumph as hosts.
7. South Africa’s Bafana Bafana sends off
South Africa, set to face hosts Mexico in the tournament opener on June 11, officially presented its national team, Bafana Bafana, with the flag during a send-off dinner at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guesthouse in Pretoria.
President Cyril Ramaphosa described the team as “our emissaries of hope and the standard-bearers of the national flag.”
Video clips circulating online suggesting Ramaphosa danced energetically with the squad were later debunked as fake, as they featured a lookalike.
8. Mexico’s traditional squad portrait
As co-hosts, Mexico released an official team portrait featuring players, staff and management, reflecting national pride.
The image prominently showcased national colours and symbolism, underscoring home advantage and football culture in the country.
9. France’s presidential send-off
President Emmanuel Macron met Kylian Mbappé and the Les Bleus squad at Clairefontaine before their departure.
The meeting highlighted France’s status as one of the tournament favourites and the country’s full institutional support.
10. England’s arrival in the USA
England, featuring Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and others under head coach Thomas Tuchel, arrived in Florida.
Images from the airport and training base showed focus and unity as the team settled into its pre-tournament camp.