Meta unveils 2026 World Cup features across its apps

Meta is rolling out a suite of new features across Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Messenger, and WhatsApp in anticipation of the 2026 World Cup. These enhancements aim to help fans follow the tournament and express their support for their favorite teams.

The company is collaborating with creators, athletes, national teams, commentators, and broadcasters to deliver real-time content and facilitate conversations. Rob Pilgrim, Meta's Global Football Lead, stated, "As the place where football conversation lives and grow, Meta’s suite of apps will allow billions of fans across the globe to connect and enjoy the highs and lows of the beautiful game together."

On Threads, users can participate in Live Chats with commentators and athletes, access real-time match scores, and display national team flags on their profiles. Instagram's search feature is enhanced for World Cup content, and its direct messages will include an AI-powered "Goal!" sound effect. Facebook introduces "Football Mode" for a themed interface and an AI feature allowing users to virtually try on team jerseys.

Messenger will provide live match updates in chat groups and offer soccer-themed chat themes and sticker packs. WhatsApp is introducing a special emoji for the official 2026 World Cup ball, the Trionda, along with soccer-themed video call effects and a directory for scores and match information. Additionally, Meta is reinforcing its measures against online fraud and harassment, which typically increase during major sporting events.

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As the place where football conversation lives and grow, Meta’s suite of apps will allow billions of fans across the globe to connect and enjoy the highs and lows of the beautiful game together.