European Mullet Championship draws crowds in southern Belgium

Hundreds of people sporting distinctive haircuts gathered in southern Belgium this weekend for the European Mullet Championship, an annual event devoted to a hairstyle that is often mocked but still enjoys a loyal following.

What the mullet look means

Commonly summed up by the saying "business in the front, party in the back" (serious at the front, party at the back), the mullet usually features a fringe and short sides, with longer hair left to fall down the nape of the neck.

After being made famous in the 1980s, the style fell sharply out of fashion, only to return in recent years with a heavy dose of irony.

European Mullet Championship in Belgium

This year’s European championship is the fourth edition since a group of enthusiasts in Belgium adopted an Australian idea to stage a competition, drawing entrants from France, Spain and England.

For many of those taking part, the mullet is far more than a haircut - it has become a way of life. "The mullet is open - to others, to difference, to adventure. It has a wild side," said event spokesperson David Hubert, who uses the pseudonym Edgar Funkel.

Selection, values and the 2026 champions

In the race for the title of best mullet in Europe, contestants first had to complete a questionnaire explaining more about themselves. "Of course we choose a fantastic hairstyle, but what we really want is to choose a wonderful person," said juror Lolita Demoustiez, 39 - known as Dalita.

"What matters is that the person wearing the mullet truly embodies values such as tolerance, kindness and the freedom to be who you are."

Belgian competitor Christine, 60, said her striking new haircut had helped her get through a difficult period in her life. "It’s an absolutely fantastic feeling, and I haven’t taken any antidepressants yet," she promised, showing off her silver-grey style. "Long live the mullet!"

Around 50 finalists were chosen to present their exuberant looks to an excited crowd. Winners were picked across several categories, including junior mullet, traditional mullet, unusual mullet and veteran mullet. Ultimately, the overall 2026 champions were named as the duo Berenice, 44, and Samuel, 46 - better known to their fans as BesaMulet.