Spanish footballer Marc Cucurella changed his signature long, curly hairstyle to braids days before joining Real Madrid, sparking divided reactions on social media.
3:24 PM
Marc Cucurella, the Spanish left-back who won the 2026 FIFA World Cup, altered his iconic curly hair into braids ahead of his presentation at Real Madrid, surprising fans across social media platforms.
The change came nine days after Spain's World Cup victory. Cucurella's curly hair had become a defining characteristic throughout his career, and the shift to braids marked a significant departure from his established look. Supporters on social media expressed divided opinions about the new hairstyle, with some saying he appeared more attractive in the braided style while others argued he had lost his distinctive essence and aura.
Cucurella has a history of making symbolic changes following major tournament victories. In 2024, after winning the Eurocopa, he dyed his hair red, fulfilling a prior promise. On July 28, 2026, nine days after winning the World Cup and as he had previously pledged, he tattooed the face of Luis de la Fuente, his coach with the Spanish national team, on his left shoulder.
The footballer's curly hair carries deeper significance beyond aesthetics. According to Lena de Pons, a pharmacist and dermatopharmacy expert, curly hair functions as a natural protective mechanism against heat. De Pons explained on her TikTok profile that contrary to common assumptions, curly hair provides advantages in combating high temperatures. Scientific studies have demonstrated that wavy and curly hair can serve as an evolutionary advantage for protection from heat, with the hair acting as a natural umbrella that keeps sun rays away from the scalp.
Despite the common belief that long, curly hair would be uncomfortable in hot conditions, the structure of such hair actually offers thermal protection. De Pons noted that many would assume someone with Cucurella's voluminous curly hair would suffer greatly from heat, but the reality differs from this perception.
Spain left-back Marc Cucurella fulfilled a pre-tournament promise by getting a tattoo of coach Luis de la Fuente on his left forearm Tuesday, days after winning the 2026 World Cup.
Santander and BBVA rejected guarantees for Cox Energy CEO Enrique Riquelme's presidential bid against incumbent Florentino Pérez.
Federico Valverde was hospitalized with a head injury after a second altercation with teammate Aurélien Tchouaméni in two days at the club's training ground.
Portuguese manager, 63, would return to the club if Pérez wins Sunday's presidential election. Benfica has set a release clause price.
Head coach Mauricio Pochettino announced the U.S. squad for the 2026 World Cup on Tuesday in New York, featuring Christian Pulisic and excluding midfielder Tanner Tessmann.
Italian manager signs three-year deal after Chelsea compensation agreement; he previously worked as City assistant during 2022-23 treble season.
