As the countdown hits the one-year mark until the FIFA World Cup 26™ lights up Canada, Mexico, and the United States, Visa, a global powerhouse in digital payments and a dedicated champion of world soccer, revealed today that Lamine Yamal, one of the game’s most dazzling young stars, will serve as its global ambassador for the tournament.
To mark this milestone and fuel anticipation for the grandest FIFA World Cup™ ever, Visa is rolling out exclusive fan experiences for cardholders, including opportunities to meet Yamal in Barcelona and secure signed merchandise in the buildup to FIFA World Cup 26™.
“Lamine is the embodiment of soccer’s next chapter — bold, electrifying, and full of promise,” said Tarek Abdalla, Visa’s Chief Marketing Officer for CEMEA.
“At Visa, we’re always exploring new ways to unite fans through the magic of sport. As our FIFA World Cup™ ambassador, Lamine captures the heart and energy of the beautiful game, igniting passion for millions of fans worldwide.”
Yamal has taken the soccer world by storm with his record-breaking performances, blending skill, speed, and vision to become a global sensation and a beacon of the sport’s future.
Speaking on the partnership, Yamal said, “Football is more than a sport; it’s a source of joy and a way to connect people across the globe. I’m thrilled to join forces with Visa to share that passion and inspire others through the game.”
As FIFA’s Official Payment Technology Partner, Visa has harnessed soccer’s universal appeal to drive inclusion and access, from grassroots programs to the world’s biggest stages.
Through creative fan experiences, athlete collaborations, and exclusive cardholder perks, Visa continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible for players, fans, and the future of soccer.