Photos and videos of the fan proudly flaunting Kohli's RCB jersey have gone viral, with many football supporters applauding the crossover between cricket and football. Although the match itself was remembered for Kylian Mbappé's brilliant brace after a weather-delayed contest, television cameras and online users soon shifted their focus to the unexpected Virat Kohli tribute inside the stadium.
The viral moment once again highlighted Virat Kohli's global popularity beyond the world of cricket. Fans on social media praised the gesture, saying Kohli's influence extends across different sports and countries. The incident served as another reminder that the Indian batting superstar enjoys one of the largest and most passionate fan followings in world sport.
Cricket meets football: RCB colours spotted in FIFA World Cup 2026 crowd
Virat Kohli has spent his entire IPL career with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), making him the face of the franchise. Over the years, RCB has built one of the most passionate fan bases in cricket. Fans have often been seen carrying RCB jerseys at sporting events across the world, but seeing one at the FIFA World Cup made the moment even more special.
The fan proudly holding up Kohli's RCB jersey during the France vs Iraq match quickly became one of the most talked-about moments from the game. As photos and videos spread across social media, cricket and football fans alike praised the unexpected crossover. Many called it another example of Kohli's unmatched popularity beyond the cricket field.
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The appearance of an RCB jersey at football's biggest tournament also highlighted cricket's growing global reach. With supporters from different countries gathered at the FIFA World Cup, the tribute showed how admiration for Virat Kohli extends beyond cricket and across sporting cultures. It was a simple gesture that reflected the global appeal of one of the world's biggest sporting icons.
From IPL stadiums to World Cup arenas — The unstoppable spread of Kohli's fanbase
Virat Kohli's fan following is among the biggest in world sport. The former India captain has spent his entire IPL career with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), making him the face of the franchise. Over the years, RCB has built a loyal fan base, with supporters proudly carrying the team's colours at sporting events across the world.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 provided another example of Kohli's global popularity. During the France vs Iraq match, a fan was seen holding up Kohli's RCB jersey in the stands. The moment quickly went viral on social media, with both cricket and football fans praising the unexpected crossover between the two sports.
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Kohli's connection with football is also well known. The RCB legend has often spoken about his love for the sport and has repeatedly named Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo as his favourite footballer. From IPL stadiums to FIFA World Cup arenas, Kohli's influence continues to grow, proving that his popularity extends far beyond the cricket field.
Fans can't stop talking — Social media explodes over Kohli's RCB jersey at FIFA 2026
Photos and videos of the fan holding Virat Kohli's RCB jersey during the France vs Iraq FIFA World Cup 2026 match spread across social media within minutes. The unexpected moment quickly caught the attention of both cricket and football fans. Many users shared the clips, saying it was one of the most surprising scenes from the match.
Fans praised Kohli's massive global fan following and said his popularity goes far beyond cricket. Some called it a perfect example of how sports can bring people together, while others said it was special to see an RCB jersey at football's biggest tournament. The moment sparked thousands of reactions across different social media platforms. Here are some fans' reactions:
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