Meta Rolls Out FIFA World Cup 2026 Features Across Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook and Threads

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off, Meta has introduced a series of football-themed features across its suite of apps, with the goal of boosting fan engagement and offering fresh avenues for users to follow the tournament in real-time.

The updates link live scores, football communities, AI-powered experiences, themed stickers and dedicated tournament hubs across Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, Threads and Messenger.

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Threads Becomes a Hub for Live Match Conversations:

Threads is quickly becoming Meta’s place to go for football conversations in the moment during the tournament.

The platform is rolling out Live Chats with football personalities, commentators and creators before, during and after matches. Football names set to feature include former Argentina and Manchester City striker Sergio Agüero and former England and Arsenal star Ian Wright.

Meta also unveils live scores, team badges, custom emoji reactions, football-themed stickers, media highlights and match reminders. Throughout the tournament, fans will be able to discuss matches, react to key moments and interact with other supporters in a dedicated football community.

Instagram Adds Dedicated World Cup Destination:

Instagram has improved its search experience to help find World Cup content easier.

For those looking for tournament content, a dedicated FIFA World Cup destination will offer real-time updates, trending Reels, Stories and content from broadcasters, players, teams, creators and fans.

The platform is also launching a football-themed “Goal!” voice effect for direct messages, allowing people to send audio messages with special animations inspired by the sport.

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Facebook Introduces Football Mode:

Facebook users will get access to a new Football Mode that unlocks themed interactions, football-themed reactions and a mini-game experience.

Meta is also using artificial intelligence to allow fans to virtually try on their favourite national team jerseys. The AI-powered feature allows users to create and share football-themed profile pictures, posts and stories during the tournament.

WhatsApp Gets Tournament Upgrades

WhatsApp is introducing a range of football-centric features, including sticker packs, video-calling effects and a dedicated football directory featuring scores, highlights, updates and team information.

In a notable brand integration, the standard football emoji has been replaced with Adidas' official Trionda World Cup match ball during the tournament period.

There are also World Cup-themed additions to Messenger, including live match updates, animated sticker packs and football-inspired chat backgrounds designed to help fans bring tournament conversations into their chats.