FRESH KICK-OFF: Athletic icons ring in 2026 as 'world’s most attractive athlete' dazzles in strapless gown & Haaland posts 'heartfelt' greeting

A host of the sporting world's elite and most famous personalities, including the dubbed 'world's sexiest athlete,' have been celebrating the turn of the year.

Alica Schmidt captivated fans in an elegant strapless outfit

Flavy Barla and F1 star Esteban Ocon celebrated at Disneyland Paris

Erling Haaland posted a selfie with a 'lovely' note to his followers

German Olympian Alica Schmidt gave her supporters a glimpse of her New Year's festivities, sporting a sophisticated strapless dress.

The 27-year-old track star sent New Year wishes to her 5.5 million Instagram followers and playfully noted she was "in my hosting era" via her stories.

F1 driver Esteban Ocon and partner Flavy Barla uploaded photos of themselves enjoying the holiday atmosphere at Disneyland Paris.

The French couple posted several charming pictures of their excursion, taking in the pyrotechnics over the legendary Disney palace.

Man City ace Erling Haaland also used Instagram to post a selfie paired with a note to his fans.

The striker featured a photo of a sign reading "life is beautiful," alongside his own wishes for a prosperous new year to his fanbase.

The Norwegian wasn't the only soccer icon joining the festivities.

Argentina and Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martinez shared intimate photos with his stylish wife Agus Gandolfo during their countdown party.

He also included heartwarming snaps of his children and companions as the group rang in 2026.

Football legend David Beckham shared a poignant retrospective of the past year, seemingly extending an olive branch to his son Brooklyn following their reported rift.

Lautaro Martinez and Agus Gandolfo shared a close moment during the party

The England icon penned an emotional message expressing gratitude to his family for a superb year, concluding with a classic Sir Alex Ferguson quote: "onto the next."

Beckham also highlighted his children, Brooklyn included, on his stories with affectionate captions such as "I love you all so much" and "you are my life."

If the theme of the New Year was sentimental milestones, darts prodigy Luke Littler may have taken the crown.

The 18-year-old reposted a message his father, Anthony Buckley, had written seven years prior which said: "A great little read—our lad Lukey has banked £1600 since October in Skipsea, what a streak.

"Competing with and toppling the best; your mum and I will do everything possible to see you reach the summit one day, and maybe we can retire and travel with you haha."

Littler captioned the throwback screenshot: "Seven years ago... good night, God bless, and happy new year."

The old post seemed a premonition, as Littler returns to the stage on New Year's Day, aiming to move closer to a successful World Darts Championship title defense.

Heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk also prioritized family, opting for a quiet night at home with his wife Yekaterina and their kids.

She shared photos of their evening with an optimistic caption: "New Year isn't about flawless schedules; it's about the warmth of loved ones and holding onto hope even after a tough year!!!

"Wishing for more embraces, genuine talks, peaceful nights, and special moments in the coming year."

In the boxing world, Tommy Fury posted highlights from his night with Molly-Mae and daughter Bambi.

However, his focus has already shifted back to the ring, as he shared footage of an early 10km run the following morning.

Meanwhile, Chris Eubank Jr watched the fireworks from a Dubai high-rise.

Snooker's top-ranked Judd Trump did the same, uploading a video of the massive pyrotechnic show at the Burj Khalifa.

Former tennis pro Camila Giorgi offered a peek at her New Year shopping before posing with her significant other on social media.

ATP world No.2 Jannik Sinner chose to commemorate the achievements of the past year rather than just the new arrival.

He published a montage reflecting on the triumphs and challenges of the last 12 months, specifically highlighting his battles with Carlos Alcaraz.