The Prophecy of Maradona That Is Coming True in the 2026 World Cup
He anticipated in 2018 what is now experienced with matches lasting over 100 minutes, breaks turned into advertising spaces, and a Mexico favored in the competition
Diego Maradona's prediction
In 2018, Diego Armando Maradona uttered one of those phrases that, over time, become a prophecy. Asked about the choice of Mexico, the United States, and Canada as hosts of the 2026 World Cup, the Argentine star didn't hesitate to criticize the decision, and he did so in his unmistakable style: "The Americans will want four 25-minute halves to put in commercials. I don't like it. There's no passion. The Canadians will be good skiers, whatever they want, and the Americans want to do four quarters of 25 minutes each for the advertising. We had to play 100 minutes,” the number ten quipped.
About advertising
Beyond the tone, Maradona was pointing to a central aspect, a business behind soccer. Today, eight years later, his words seem to come to life. The 2026 World Cup matches are extended with hydration breaks and extra time, which means the matches last over 100 minutes. Those interruptions, designed to combat the high temperatures on the American continent, became ideal spaces for television advertising, just as he had anticipated.
About Mexico
El Diego also pointed out that Mexico would benefit without deserving it. The reality shows that the Mexican national team, with four victories in the group stage, has already reached the round of 16 and will face England, confirming the advantage that Maradona had warned about
