What is a Bisht and Why Was Messi Wearing It At the World Cup? | Soccer/Soccer

At the World Cup trophy presentation after Argentina's win over France in the final on Sunday, Lionel Messi was offered a bisht, a traditional Arab cloak, to wear by the Emir of Qatar.

Messi allowed Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to place the robe on his shoulders before taking the World Cup trophy from FIFA President Gianni Infantino and lifting it in front of his ecstatic teammates.

What is a bisht?

The bisht is a long cloak made out of light, often sheer, material with trimming made out of real gold that is worn over a white thobe.

Primarily worn in the Gulf, it is a garment that has been worn for centuries during special occasions. It is viewed as a sign of appreciation and respect and is typically worn by top officials such as politicians, sheikhs and other high-status individuals.

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