FIFA World Cup 2026: Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp Get Football-Themed Features
Meta has released several features themed around the FIFA World Cup 2026. These features have been introduced across platforms including WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram
The FIFA World Cup 2026 has kicked off in spectacular fashion, and the excitement for the tournament is palpable worldwide. To mark the start of the event, tech company Meta has launched football-themed features across its various social media platforms. The company has partnered with broadcasters, national teams, players, and creators to bring these features to life. Regarding specific features, Instagram users now have access to an "AI Goal" voice effect in the DM section; sending a voice message triggers a football-themed animation. Beyond Instagram, new features are also rolling out on WhatsApp, Facebook, and Messenger.
Meta Expands FIFA World Cup 2026
Meta announced these FIFA World Cup 2026-themed features via a newsroom post. They are available across all of Meta's social media platforms: Threads, WhatsApp, Facebook, and Messenger.
Threads
On Threads, Meta has released a "Live Chats" feature. This allows users to participate in real-time conversations hosted by football commentators, players, and creators. Other features include football-themed stickers, custom emoji reactions, trophy icons, media highlights from broadcasters, and match reminders.
Read more: The power of AI and new technology will be on display at the FIFA World Cup 2026, transforming the football viewing experience.
For Instagram, Meta has rolled out a dedicated hub for content featuring Reels, Stories, creators, broadcasters, and national teams. Additionally, a "Goal!" voice effect has been added to the DM section, accompanied by a football-themed animation. You can access this feature within Instagram's voice messaging section.
Features themed around the FIFA World Cup 2026 have also been introduced on Facebook. A 'Football Mode' has been added, which you can access by double-tapping the Facebook logo. It includes football-themed reactions, special surprises, and football mini-games.
Messenger
A 'Live Updates' feature has been introduced in Messenger. It provides users with real-time updates on match events—such as goals, red cards, and other key details. Additionally, users get access to football-themed chat backgrounds, animated sticker packs, and more.
WhatsApp has partnered with Adidas for this initiative. The app features an emoji of the 'Trionda' football—the official match ball of the tournament. It also includes football-themed video calling effects, sticker packs, and more.
