World Cup
Ethan Ampadu named Wales captain for World Cup 2026 opener
The Leeds United defender will lead Wales out in their first World Cup finals appearance in decades.
Tom Radcliffe · 7 July 2026 · 4 min read
Photo: Leeds Zone Media
Leeds United defender Ethan Ampadu has been confirmed as Wales captain for their opening World Cup 2026 fixture, a landmark moment for a player who has become a defensive cornerstone at both club and international level.
Ampadu's leadership has been a consistent theme of Leeds' Premier League campaign, and Wales manager praised his 'calm authority' in handing him the armband for the tournament.
Wales open their World Cup campaign against Argentina, live on domestic television, with Leeds Zone providing full coverage of Ampadu's tournament throughout.