
Tim Payne’s meteoric rise ahead of the 2026 World Cup
From a few thousand Instagram followers to millions, Tim Payne's unexpected fame is reshaping the narrative around New Zealand's first World Cup appearance since 2010.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Tim Hortons across Soccer, Hockey.

From a few thousand Instagram followers to millions, Tim Payne's unexpected fame is reshaping the narrative around New Zealand's first World Cup appearance since 2010.

In less than a week, 32‑year‑old New Zealand utility player Tim Payne amassed over three million followers, sparked a wave of fan tributes and even prompted calls to rename a Tim Horton's outlet in Vancouver.

While former U.S. President Donald Trump remains absorbed in personal ventures and the fallout from the Iran conflict, Canada under Prime Minister Mark Carney is deepening strategic ties across the Arctic and Europe, signaling a new independent trajectory.

The Canadian Junior Hockey League revealed its new leadership team, highlighting Robert Mazzuca’s reappointment as Chair and the appointment of Ryan Bartoshyk and Kevin Figsby as vice‑chairs.