The 2026 World Cup final saw Spain defeat Argentina in a stodgy match. England suffered semi-final heartbreak but finished third, their best result since 1966. Off the pitch, the tournament produced numerous viral moments, from pranks to heartwarming reunions.
John Stones Pranks Thomas Tuchel
After England defeated Mexico, defender John Stones pretended to injure his shoulder in the dressing room. Teammate Declan Rice called over manager Thomas Tuchel, who looked worried. Stones then broke into a dance, and Tuchel hugged him. Stones repeated the prank after the Norway win.
Victoria Beckham Becomes a Meme
During England's quarter-final against Norway, Victoria Beckham failed to react to Jude Bellingham's equaliser. While husband David and son Romeo jumped up, Posh Spice was chatting to her hairdresser. David later said she was celebrating inside.
Danny Murphy's Cat Story
During Côte d'Ivoire v Norway, BBC commentator Danny Murphy recalled losing his cat Bob, who jumped into a Royal Mail van. He later revealed Bob returned after weeks but had gone feral and ended up living with a friend's parents in Preston.
Viking Row Sweeps the Globe
Norway fans popularised the synchronised Viking row celebration, spreading to stadiums, subways, and even fighter jets. Politicians, golfers, and care home residents joined in. After Norway's elimination, England fans chanted against the trend.
Rowing Refusenik Emil Anners Lappen
Norway supporter Emil Anners Lappen refused to do the Viking row, insisting Vikings sailed, not rowed. However, viewers noticed he had oars mounted on his wall at home.
Belgium Trolls Trump
After President Trump lobbied to defer a red card for USA striker Folarin Balogun, Belgium thrashed the co-hosts 4-1. Belgian players mimicked Trump's YMCA dance in celebration.
Harry Kane's Croaky Voice
England captain Harry Kane lost his voice after singing Wonderwall following the win over Mexico. His hoarse BBC interview went viral, with Liam Gallagher tweeting sympathy.
Jude Bellingham and Erling Haaland's Bromance
Despite being quarter-final opponents, Bellingham and Haaland showed their friendship on social media. Haaland called Bellingham one of the best in the world.
Wayne Rooney Rows the Hudson
After betting that Norway would not reach the quarter-finals, Wayne Rooney rowed down the Hudson River with colleagues Joe Hart and Micah Richards when they did.
Javier Aguirre's X-rated Heckle
Mexico coach Javier Aguirre swore at England's Anthony Gordon during the match, but both laughed it off. Gordon called it a compliment.
Haaland Lookalike Anastasia Kostromitina
Russian model Anastasia Kostromitina went viral for resembling Erling Haaland, gaining modelling offers and millions of followers.
Couple's Argument Goes Viral
A South African couple's squabble in the stands sparked speculation. The man checked his phone, leading to a tense exchange. Social media users urged divorce.
Pochettino's Style Copied by Rooney
USA manager Mauricio Pochettino became a style icon. Wayne Rooney bought the same outfit but refused to roll up his sleeves.
Anthony Barry's Half-time Interviews
England assistant coach Anthony Barry became a cult hero for his insightful tunnel interviews and abrupt exits.
Missing Dog Found Thanks to Viral Video
After a month missing, dog Gorda was spotted in a viral video of celebrating Mexico fans. Her owner was reunited with her.
Argentina Fans Reunite Wallet Owner
During Argentina's victory over Jordan, fans found a dropped wallet and sang the owner's name until he appeared.
Gary Lineker Returns to BBC
Gary Lineker gatecrashed Micah Richards' Match of the Day interview after England beat Norway, having previously criticised BBC for broadcasting from Salford.
Missing Fan 'Little Mick' Found in Barcelona
England fan Michael Hewitt went missing for 10 days after losing his phone and tickets. He was found happily watching games in Barcelona, unaware of the search.
Ross Kemp's Passionate Videos
Ross Kemp filmed himself cheering for England, with vein-popping enthusiasm and reading glasses on his head.
Japanese Fan's Excitement
Japanese fan Hirochika Nakakuki went viral for his enthusiastic vox pop, despite not speaking English.
Jordan Henderson's Freak Injury
Jordan Henderson broke his wrist celebrating England's win over Mexico by falling over advertising hoardings. He became the first footballer booked and stretchered off without playing.
Danny Murphy's Frustration
BBC commentator Danny Murphy banged the table in frustration when England missed a chance against France, apologising to colleague Steve Wilson.
Brodie the Golden Doodle
A golden doodle named Brodie wearing ear defenders became a crowd favourite, amassing 2.3 million Instagram followers and partying with Scotland fans.
Lamine Yamal's Little Brother
Spain's Lamine Yamal's three-year-old brother Keyne followed him around, with adorable moments on the big screen.
South Korean Fans Share Tequila
South Korean fans denied entry to a stadium with tequila shared it with Mexican fans, who had earlier danced to Gangnam Style.
Wayne Rooney Criticises Half-time Show
The final's half-time show featured Madonna, BTS, Justin Bieber, and more. Wayne Rooney called it crap, speaking for the nation.
