Son Heung-min joins LAFC as crypto brands circle the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Son Heung-min, South Korea’s all-time leading scorer and captain, has officially transferred to Los Angeles FC for a reported fee exceeding $26 million. That figure makes it an MLS-record deal, and the motivation is refreshingly practical: Son wants to get familiar with the continent that will host the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The tournament, co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, will require teams to navigate time zones, climate shifts, and, in Mexico’s case, altitude that can turn elite athletes into weekend joggers. Playing in MLS gives Son a head start on all of it.

Son made no secret of the logic behind his move. North American travel, varying pitch conditions, and Mexico’s punishing elevation were all factors in his decision.

For a 33-year-old forward coming off years in the Premier League with Tottenham Hotspur, the transition is less about chasing a retirement paycheck and more about competitive preparation.

Kraken was announced as the Official Crypto Exchange Supporter of the FIFA World Cup 2026, with the partnership kicking off on June 9, 2026. The deal focuses on fan engagement and digital adoption across North America and Europe. Kraken, Chiliz, Avalanche Stake World Cup 2026 Claims