Former England and Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart found himself in a bizarre situation on Saturday, July 18, 2026, as he was caught in a torrential downpour in New York City ahead of the World Cup final. The 39-year-old, who has been working as a pundit for BBC during the tournament, took to Instagram to share a video of himself drenched and shoeless after the sudden monsoon-like weather.
Hart's Soaked Adventure
In the Instagram story, Hart said: "The weather is absolutely banging here, shoes are off, trainers are ruined, COME ON!" The heavy rain forced him to walk barefoot, holding his shoes in his hands. His white t-shirt was completely soaked, and his sunglasses were missing from his head. He panned the camera to show large puddles on the road, with a car struggling to drive through the flash flood, while people with umbrellas ran for shelter.
This incident comes just days after Hart joined former Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney and ex-Manchester City defender Micah Richards in rowing the River Hudson in New York. Rooney had agreed to the row if Norway reached the quarter-finals, after the Scandinavian team performed the infamous Viking Row celebration at the World Cup. Initially suggesting the River Mersey, Rooney changed to the Hudson upon arriving in New York. After Norway beat Brazil to reach the last eight, Rooney kept his promise, rowing alongside Hart and Richards.
BBC Punditry Team
Hart, Richards, and Rooney are all part of the BBC punditry team covering the World Cup final on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium. The match features Spain, under coach Luis de la Fuente, aiming for their second World Cup title and first in 16 years, against Argentina, led by Lionel Scaloni, who are seeking back-to-back victories after winning in Qatar four years ago. Spain advanced to the final by defeating France 2-0 on Tuesday, while Argentina came from behind to beat England 2-1, securing their third final appearance in four tournaments.
Hart's video quickly went viral, adding a lighthearted moment to the high-stakes buildup of the World Cup final. Despite the weather, the former goalkeeper maintained his enthusiasm, reflecting the spirit of the tournament.
