In the heart of Resende, a small city in Rio de Janeiro state, a unique form of World Cup enthusiasm is taking shape—literally. Barber Washington Santos, a 27-year-old artist with scissors, has turned his barbershop into a studio of national pride, creating intricate haircuts that celebrate Brazil’s quest for a sixth World Cup title.
The Hexa Cut as Santos calls his creation, is more than just a haircut; it’s a statement of faith in the Brazilian national team. The design features the iconic green, yellow, blue, and white of the Brazilian flag, meticulously painted onto the hair of eager fans. Since its debut during the 2026 World Cup, the Hexa Cut has gained popularity, with Santos already adorning the hair of about 30 customers this year.
The Birth of the Hexa Cut
Santos’ journey into barbering began over a decade ago when a friend encouraged him to take a course at a local residents’ association. His passion for the craft led him to experiment with different styles, but it was the World Cup that inspired his most famous creation. “I wanted to create something different,” Santos said, reflecting on the origins of the Hexa Cut.
The process behind the Hexa Cut is a blend of artistry and precision. It starts with a standard haircut, followed by bleaching the hair to a pristine white. Santos then uses homemade stencils to outline the flag before painting the blue circle, yellow diamond, and green background. The finer details are added by hand, making each Hexa Cut a unique masterpiece.
A Symbol of National Pride
The Hexa Cut has become a symbol of national pride for many Brazilians. Fans like Gleizyane de Souza, a 27-year-old enthusiast, see the haircut as a way to contribute to the team’s success. “We’re doing our part,” she said. “Now it’s up to the players to do theirs.”
Demand for the Hexa Cut surges ahead of Brazil’s matches, with Santos seeing about five customers a week requesting the style. His repertoire has expanded to include flags of other countries, spider webs, and soccer club colors, showcasing his versatility as a barber and artist.
The Impact of the Hexa Cut
The Hexa Cut is more than just a trend; it’s a reflection of the deep-seated passion Brazilians have for their national team. As the World Cup progresses, the Hexa Cut serves as a constant reminder of the support and hope the team carries with them. For Santos, it’s a way to bring joy and pride to his community through his craft.
As Brazil continues its journey in the World Cup, the Hexa Cut stands as a testament to the power of art and national pride. It’s a reminder that even in the simplest of places, like a barbershop in Resende, the spirit of the World Cup can inspire and unite.
