Icons Series is proud to announce that Gareth Bale - widely regarded as one of the most iconic footballers of his generation and one of the most gifted golfers ever to come out of elite football - has officially joined Team World for the Reignwood Icons of Football 2026.
The event returns to Robinswood Club, Bangkok on 31 January - 1 February 2026, bringing together 24 of the most recognisable names from global football, this time with Bale contributing to the strongest Team World line-up ever assembled.
From unforgettable Champions League finals to defining international moments with Wales, Bale arrives as a generational signing. As a scratch golfer, Bale instantly becomes one of the standout names to watch when the tournament tees off.
TEAM WORLD STACKED WITH GLOBAL ICONS
Bale joins an already extraordinary Team World roster that includes:
- Gareth Bale
- Gabriel Batistuta
- Nigel de Jong
- Luís Figo
- Ryan Giggs
- David Ginola
- Ruud Gullit
- Aaron Ramsey
- Andriy Shevchenko
- Nemanja Vidić
- Dwight Yorke
- Gianfranco Zola
With multiple Champions League winners, Ballon d’Or contenders, and international heroes who now turn their attention to the golf course, Bale’s arrival gives Team World a major momentum boost heading into Bangkok.
This year’s tournament lands with fierce competitive tension already building, as Team England enter 2026 with an impressive roster of their own.
Team England current lineup:
- Jimmy Bullard
- Michael Carrick
- Robbie Fowler
- Joe Hart
- Paul Ince
- Phil Jagielka
- Jermaine Jenas
- Phil Jones
- Teddy Sheringham
- John Terry
- Theo Walcott
Since retiring from professional football, Bale has leaned into his lifelong passion for golf. His swing, short-game ability and competitive mindset have earned admiration from players, coaches and broadcasters, with many labelling him one of the strongest ex-pros now playing the sport, having trained with PGA professionals and competed in pro-am events.
As another top level scratch handicap golfer adds his name to the team sheet, his arrival sets up the fiercest debate yet of who is truly the best footballer-turned-golfer on the planet? That question will be settled on the fairways of Bangkok.
ICONS SERIES RETURNS BIGGER THAN EVER
Reignwood Icons of Football 2026 will see 24 world-renowned football legends face off over a dramatic 10-hole matchplay format, broadcast worldwide.
Fans will see their icons up close, competing not on the pitch – but in one of sport’s most competitive environments, desperately vying to claim the win, the Icons Trophy and all bragging rights.
Gareth Bale commented: “I’ve always watched and admired the Icons Series and knew it was something that I’d be a part of. The players are committed, the competition is intense and I look forward to doing my part to help secure a win. Team World is shaping up strongly and I can’t wait to compete - especially against some of the Team England boys I’ve faced over the years.”
Thomas Brookes, CEO Icons Series, said: “Gareth Bale is one of the biggest football icons of his generation and one of the most naturally talented crossover golfers we’ve ever seen. His arrival levels up Team World and elevates the competitive storyline heading into Bangkok. This year’s edition will be our strongest ever.”
EXPERIENCE BALE AND FOOTBALL’S ICONS UP CLOSE IN BANGKOK
Fans attending will see:
24 superstar footballers competing in live matchplay golf.
Team rivalries played out hole-by-hole.
The return of The $10M Swing – golf’s richest single hole.
Entertainment, hospitality and fan-interaction moments.
Coverage broadcast globally and across Icons channels.
Tickets are on sale now at https://www.ticketmelon.com/iconsseries/reignwoodicons2026
.JPG)