
The Persistent Myths That Haunt the World Cup
A look at the conspiracy theories that swirl around every World Cup, from political meddling to commercial narratives.
Jul 8, 2026
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A look at the conspiracy theories that swirl around every World Cup, from political meddling to commercial narratives.

The Athletic’s daily World Cup predictions feature a unique blend of professional analysis, fan participation, and whimsical contenders, offering readers a chance to track expert forecasts across the tournament’s early rounds.

Joe Connor, a San Diego resident, embarked on a mission to attend soccer matches in all 144 countries and territories that will qualify for the 2026 World Cup, turning a personal health scare into a worldwide adventure that honors his late father and showcases the sport’s universal passion.