As attention already starts to build towards the 2026 FIFA World Cup on our sister site Read World Cup, we look to highlight one of the tournament’s most intriguing potential storylines.
That being brothers representing different nations on football’s biggest stage.
And for Rangers supporters, one family immediately stands out.
Souttar rivalry at World Cup
Current Gers defender John Souttar could line up for Scotland while his brother, Harry Souttar, remains a key figure for Australia heading into the tournament this summer now that he is over an Achillies injury that kept him sidelined until April this season.
The pair were born in Scotland to an Australian mother, and were eligible for both nations.
It is a remarkable football story given the different paths both brothers have taken in recent years.
John became an important player at Ibrox after signing in 2022 from Hearts, before losing his place earlier this season under Danny Rohl.
Missed Ibrox reunion
While Harry, once linked with a move to Rangers in 2023, has endured a turbulent spell south of the border.
Back in 2023, Harry was heavily discussed as a potential Rangers signing amid uncertainty over his future at Leicester City.
After scoring for Australia in a 2-2 draw against Mexico that year, the towering centre-back addressed the speculation directly.
“It’s been tough,” Souttar admitted.
“I think there were a lot of things mentioned in the press about going on loan.
“I am a Leicester player and I’m going to do everything in my power to try to get back into the squad.
“Obviously it’s the manager’s decision so all I can do is work hard and try to prove to him that I can get back in the squad.”
Two years later, the situation has worsened dramatically for the former Dundee United defender.
After suffering relegation from the Premier League in 2023, Harry endured another major setback this season as Leicester dropped from the EFL Championship into League One.
World Cup sibling rivalries
Despite that club turmoil and injury woes, Harry remains an important figure internationally for Australia.
The Souttars are among several brothers who could represent different countries at the 2026 tournament.
Other possible split-nationality family stories include:
- Desire Doue (France) and Guela Doue (Ivory Coast)
- Nico Williams (Spain) and Inaki Williams (Ghana)
- Pierre Kalulu (France) and Gedeon Kalulu (DR Congo)
For more World Cup stories, international football features and global football coverage, check out Read World Cup.
