With less than 10 days to go before the kickoff of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, contemporary art and French football are joining forces. Richard Orlinski, the world’s best-selling French contemporary artist, has officially partnered with the French Football Federation (FFF) to unveil a brand-new creation: the Kong Football.
This major collaboration marks the perfect intersection between the sculptor’s powerful, faceted pop universe and the intense emotion of elite sport.
The Kong Football: A Masterpiece in the Colors of “Les Bleus”
An iconic figure in Richard Orlinski’s work, the famous resin gorilla has been reinvented in a resolutely sporty 22 cm version. A true symbol of victory and national pride, this collector’s edition features powerful, symbolic details:
- The Official French Jersey: The sculpture wears a kit directly inspired by the brand-new look of the French National Team.
- The Two-Star Rooster: The official FFF crest, symbolizing France’s world titles, is faithfully reproduced on the statue’s chest.
- The Golden Ball Trophy: Standing in a posture of triumphant celebration, the Kong lifts a golden football toward the sky, capturing the magical, suspended moment between ultimate effort and crowning glory.
Art and Sport: A Universal Language
Known for breaking boundaries and democratizing art, Richard Orlinski has created a piece that speaks directly to the hearts of fans. Sport, much like art, is a powerful vehicle for raw emotion, precision, and pushing past limits.
“I deeply believe in the power of art (…)”, shares the artist. “Often, people don’t dare to cross the threshold of a gallery or a museum, so I make sure the museum comes to them!”.
Driven by collective energy and a conquest mindset, this exclusive alliance between “Born Wild” faceted art and the values of the FFF is already shaping up to be a cultural highlight of this 2026 World Cup. A must-have to celebrate art and football with style.
Allez les Bleus!
