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The 2026 World Cup, which will take place in the United States, Canada and Mexico between 11 June and 19 July, is at the centre of an unprecedented cultural phenomenon: an animated format that depicts the matches as if they were part of a manga. Entitled ‘World Cup Anime’, this project first appeared on social media as a compilation of animated clips – often created by fans – that depict the action on the pitch in a typically Japanese style. This blend of sport and digital art has rapidly gained popularity, generating thousands of shares and comments, whilst redefining the way fans perceive international competitions.
This type of content stands out for its creative flair. Rather than limiting themselves to live footage from the pitch, the animators opt for dynamic scenes, spectacular visual effects and characters with exaggerated expressions, reminiscent of traditional animated series. Goals are often depicted with bursts of colour, fast-motion sequences or dramatic zooms, transforming every moment of action into a scene of almost cinematic drama. This approach has appealed not only to a young audience, accustomed to short, engaging formats, but also to football fans who appreciate this touch of originality.
Goals are often depicted with bursts of colour, fast-motion sequences or dramatic zooms, transforming every moment of action into a scene of almost cinematic drama.
The craze surrounding ‘World Cup Anime’ can also be attributed to its community aspect. Many creators, often amateurs, collaborate via platforms such as YouTube, TikTok or Twitter to share their work. Challenges have even sprung up, encouraging users to produce their own clips linked to match results. This real-time interaction has transformed the World Cup into a collaborative event, where every fan can play a part in telling the story of the tournament. The chain reactions, often tinged with humour or excitement, reinforce this sense of belonging to a collective scene.
Furthermore, this phenomenon illustrates a wider trend: the fusion of sport and pop culture. In a world where video content is becoming increasingly dominant, animated formats offer a touch of imagination that balances the technical and competitive side of football. Supporters, even those who do not watch the matches live, can thus rally around these visual narratives, which are often more accessible and emotional. Iconic moments, such as a decisive goal or a heroic save, are reimagined with vibrant colours and catchy music, creating an almost poetic atmosphere.
Finally, the impact of this movement extends beyond borders. Animation channels, studios and influencers have interviewed creators to discuss it, highlighting the ingenuity behind these projects. Some have even raised the possibility of an official format, in which production teams would work with iconic players to recreate their matches in an animated style. Although this remains to be seen, the current enthusiasm suggests that the 2026 World Cup could enjoy a second life in the digital realm, where art and sport intertwine to redefine the fan experience.