Declan Rice has been named one of GQ’s Men of the Year for 2026, a recognition that follows a season in which he was central to Arsenal’s first Premier League title in 22 years. The 27-year-old midfielder’s influence on the pitch and his growing presence in wider culture earned him a spot among figures celebrated for their impact across fashion, music, sport, and society.
Rice’s role in Arsenal’s title-winning campaign was marked by tireless effort and significant attacking contributions. He finished the season with 16 goal involvements across all competitions, including 11 assists. His runs forward and persistence helped Mikel Arteta’s side secure the Premier League crown, ending a long wait for silverware. Arsenal also went unbeaten in the Champions League until a penalty shootout loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the final, with Rice a constant presence throughout.
Despite 55 appearances for the Gunners during the season, Rice maintained his importance for England at the 2026 World Cup across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Even while battling fitness concerns, he formed a strong midfield trio with Jude Bellingham and Elliot Anderson under Thomas Tuchel. The England team’s campaign ended in a memorable semi-final defeat to Argentina, just shy of reaching the final.
Rice’s style and personality continue to provoke divided opinions among fans. Some critics question whether his physicality and work rate compensate for what they see as a lack of top-tier technical skill. Others take issue with his outgoing, confident demeanor, sometimes extending criticism to his personal life. Rice has spoken openly about the impact of online abuse, revealing to GQ that negative messages led him to leave the social platform X (formerly Twitter) three years ago.
“I keep levelling up. I keep improving. I take criticism on from the manager. My ears are always open,” Rice told GQ in his cover story. “I'll hold my hands up and say, ‘Look, I’ve been sht today.’ Then I played well, but I need to do it again next week. If you think I’m good, good. If you think I’m sht, all right. But eventually I’ll prove you wrong.”
Off the pitch, Rice’s profile has grown alongside his football career. He fronts Arsenal’s campaign with eyewear brand Oakley and is an ambassador for L’Oreal haircare. He is expected to renew his boot contract with adidas after a period of speculation about his future. Rice’s involvement in fashion extends to campaigns for Prada and Burberry, and he has previously walked catwalks, showing a crossover appeal beyond football.
Rice has also spoken about his perspective on football’s financial rewards, calling the money involved “ridiculous” and stressing that it is not his main motivation. Having grown up in a flat on an estate in Kingston, south-west London, he wants to instill values in his children that reflect their privilege.
The GQ recognition comes as Arsenal sit five points clear at the top of the Premier League, with Rice on course to add another league title to his achievements. His presence remains a constant in the team’s success and a growing influence beyond the game.
According to Yahoo Sports.
