The FIFA World Cup 2026 is officially underway, and while Thomas Tuchel's Three Lions are making headlines on the pitch kicking things off with a thrilling 4-2 victory over Croatia in Dallas, the action in the stands is proving to be just as captivating.
We are officially in a new era of England WAGs (Wives and Girlfriends). Far removed from the notorious, paparazzi-fuelled antics of Baden-Baden twenty years ago, today's glamorous supporters are a polished mix of childhood sweethearts, models, and powerful social media influencers. Leading the pack are the partners of standout stars like Jordan Pickford, Jude Bellingham, and Harry Kane, who are turning the sweltering North American heat into their own personal runway.
Here is an inside look at
the women supporting the England squad as they chase global glory this summer.
When England secured their opening victory against Croatia in Texas, the players made a beeline for the stands to share celebratory kisses with their partners. The WAGs delivered a show of their own, effortlessly blending high fashion with local Texan flair.
Megan Pickford, wife of England's No. 1 goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, stole the show despite a pre-match disaster. After revealing online that she had been left without her suitcase and joked about borrowing her seven-year-old son's jersey, she pulled together a chic white vest and jeans. The ultimate accessory? A denim cowboy hat emblazoned with the number "1" in a proud nod to her husband.
However, it wasn't all smooth sailing for the glam squad. Strict stadium security rules meant that designer bags had to be severely downsized. Ellie Alderson, wife of striker Ollie Watkins, was spotted navigating the rules with a £5,000 Chanel vanity case, while Kate Kane played it safe with a sleek £2,000 Chanel phone case bag. Despite the restrictions and the intense Dallas heat, Ellie turned heads in a low-cut red England top and heels alongside Megan.
Meet the Key 2026 WAGs
The women behind the players boast fascinating careers, massive online followings, and heartwarming histories with their respective partners.
Megan Pickford
Jordan's childhood sweetheart met the goalkeeper while they were teenagers growing up in Sunderland. The couple formally tied the knot during the 2020 lockdown before hosting a lavish, grand ceremony in the Maldives in 2022. They now share three children.
Ashlyn Castro
Dating England's midfield maestro Jude Bellingham, the American model and influencer has been a prominent fixture at the tournament. She was spotted sharing a sweet embrace with Bellingham post-match in Dallas and has been documenting her World Cup journey for her followers.
Kate Kane
A steady rock for the England captain, Kate has known Harry since their school days. They got engaged in 2017, married in 2019, and share four children (Ivy, Vivienne, Louis, and Henry). As Harry himself has noted, she has been by his side for his entire career trajectory.
Tolami Benson
Engaged to Arsenal and England star Bukayo Saka, the social media influencer and PR executive said "yes" to Saka in November 2025 after five years of dating.
Ellie Alderson
The interior designer and wife of Ollie Watkins has been a vocal and stylish supporter, frequently seen strutting into stadiums alongside Megan Pickford.
Tuchel's Relaxed Rules: Family First
A major factor contributing to the positive vibes in the England camp is manager Thomas Tuchel's modernized approach to family time. Initially, the English Football Association planned to restrict access to the team's accommodations to maintain strict focus.
However, Tuchel relaxed the policy during the team's pre-tournament camp in West Palm Beach, Florida. Recognizing the mental toll of a major tournament, he allowed wives, girlfriends, and families to visit the hotel. Ashlyn Castro made a four-hour trip from Tampa to visit Bellingham, with the couple spotted enjoying card games outdoors at sunset. Kate Kane and Kobbie Mainoo's girlfriend, Leila Roy, were also seen visiting the camp.
