If you had the chance to meet Diego Maradona, what would you do? Smell him? That is exactly what our chief sports writer, Barney Ronay, did at the 2018 World Cup during Argentina’s first group game of the competition.
In a unique video diary, Ronay recounts this bizarre encounter with the legendary Argentine footballer. The moment took place amid the excitement of the tournament, where fans and journalists alike were drawn to the iconic figure.
A Memorable Meeting
Ronay’s decision to smell Maradona may seem unusual, but it highlights the surreal and personal experiences that can occur at major sporting events. The video captures the spontaneity and humor of the situation, offering a lighthearted perspective on World Cup fandom.
Exploring More Adventures
To keep up with more of Barney Ronay’s adventures in his World Cup video diary, follow @guardiansport on TikTok. There, viewers can find additional quirky and memorable moments from the tournament.
- World Cup 2026
- Diego Maradona
- Argentina



