A star-studded crossover ahead of the World Cup

Football and entertainment collide in a project that is already making waves worldwide. Lionel Messi, Lamine Yamal, and Jude Bellingham headline a spectacular campaign promoting the 2026 World Cup, sharing the screen with actor Timothée Chalamet.

The result goes far beyond a traditional commercial, delivering a story that blends street football culture, nostalgia, and elite talent, connecting different generations of fans.

A story rooted in street football

The short film, titled Backyard Legends, follows Chalamet as he assembles a team capable of taking on a mysterious, unbeatable trio from the street football scene.

Along the way, stars like Bellingham, Lamine Yamal, and Trinity Rodman join the squad, forming a team that embodies creativity, flair, and the raw essence of the game.

Messi and Bad Bunny seal the moment

The narrative builds to a powerful conclusion with the appearance of Lionel Messi, alongside global music star Bad Bunny, as they oversee the team prepared for the ultimate challenge.

Messi’s presence — as an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner — adds symbolic weight, linking the roots of street football with the highest level of the modern game.

Bridging generations

The campaign also features legendary figures such as Zinedine Zidane, David Beckham, and Alessandro Del Piero, recreated through digital effects in younger versions of themselves, reinforcing the connection between past and present.

Meanwhile, current stars including Ousmane Dembélé, Raphinha, Pedri, Florian Wirtz, and Santiago Giménez make cameo appearances, adding depth and global reach to the story.

More than just a commercial

With a visual style inspired by the 1990s, nostalgic music, and a strong cultural identity, the campaign goes beyond promoting the 2026 World Cup — it celebrates football in its purest form.

By bringing together icons from different eras and backgrounds, the message is clear: football remains a universal language that connects generations, styles, and dreams on a global stage.

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