The global spectacle of the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw in the United States was briefly upstaged by a moment of palpable tension between two Premier League icons. Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand and ex-Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure found themselves at the centre of an awkward on-stage exchange that harked back to their fierce on-pitch rivalry.
An Uncomfortable Question Sparks Tension
Ferdinand was serving as a key presenter for the prestigious draw event, guiding worldwide audiences through the complex process of group selection. During a break in proceedings, Hollywood actor Danny Ramirez engaged with the audience and turned his attention to Yaya Toure.
After asking the Ivorian legend about his nation's draw, Ramirez pivoted to a more personal topic. "I know you and Rio, you used to play for rival clubs. Are you guys friends now?" Ramirez probed. Toure offered a brief, diplomatic reply of "Yeah, yeah, yeah."
Ferdinand, however, was visibly irked by the line of questioning. "Haha, what you trying to do here Danny? I know you're trying to get in the middle here, what are you doing?" the United great retorted. When Ramirez joked he was "trying to start it up," Ferdinand referenced the enduring sting of the 2011/2012 Premier League title race.
The Ghost of the 2012 Title Race
"But, I haven't really forgiven Yaya for that 2012 title race where they took it off us but it's fine... I'm over it man, come on, let me live man," Ferdinand said, mixing humour with clear lingering sentiment. The comment cut to the heart of their rivalry.
The 2011/2012 Premier League season concluded in arguably the most dramatic fashion in the competition's history. Manchester United, believing they had secured the title with a win at Sunderland, were pipped at the post when Sergio Aguero scored a legendary stoppage-time winner for City against QPR, snatching the trophy from their neighbours' grasp.
Throughout their playing careers, the duo clashed on 12 occasions. The head-to-head record firmly favoured Toure, with Ferdinand securing just three victories, two draws, and suffering seven defeats.
A Draw Filled With Surprise and Scrutiny
The awkward reunion between the two footballing giants capped a World Cup draw that itself drew significant attention and some criticism. Viewers noted the lengthy duration of the event and the numerous segments orchestrated by FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
Despite the off-script moment, the draw successfully mapped out the path to football's ultimate prize for the nations competing in the 2026 tournament, which will be hosted across the USA, Mexico, and Canada. The incident, however, served as a stark reminder that some sporting rivalries, especially those forged in the heat of a last-gasp title decider, never truly fade.
