Photos capture highs, lows and quirks of World Cup football fandom

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has drawn an estimated 2.85 million attendees, whose experiences are marked by a shared passion for football and unwavering loyalty to their home teams. Beyond the matches themselves, fans express their dedication through a variety of pre-game rituals, distinctive chants, and unique choices of attire, creating a vibrant tapestry of global fandom.

Supporters navigate an emotional rollercoaster, celebrating the highest of highs when their teams score and enduring the lowest of lows with defeats. Photographs capture these intense moments, from jubilant celebrations in Sarajevo after a Bosnian and Herzegovinian goal to fans gathered in Rio de Janeiro watching Brazil's match on Copacabana beach. The visual narrative extends from stadiums filled with color, like during Germany's matches, to viewing parties held in cinemas in Tehran and cafes in Vienna.

Unique fan cultures are on full display. Scotland's "Tartan Army," returning to the World Cup after a 28-year absence, has made a significant impact in Boston and Miami. Their presence is marked by bagpipe performances of "Scotland the Brave" and spirited renditions of the unofficial anthem "No Scotland No Party." One fan, Karl Johnston, expressed his positive experience, stating, "I wasn't sure about the States hosting the World Cup but they've done us proud really. From the police to the bar staff and the locals, it's been a really beautiful experience."

The tournament also serves as a platform for cultural expression and tributes. Fans are seen enjoying matches while proudly displaying their national colors, as in Vancouver for a Canada v Qatar game. Tributes are paid to football legends, with one fan in Dallas honoring Lionel Messi. The shared experience extends to traditions like drinking "shoeys" during matches, as seen during Australia v Turkey, and the liberal application of face paint, exemplified by a young Scotland fan.

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I wasn't sure about the States hosting the World Cup but they've done us proud really. From the police to the bar staff and the locals, it's been a really beautiful experience.