WhatsApp has rolled out a football-themed surprise for users, temporarily replacing its usual green heart animation for Status likes with an animated football. The feature has started appearing for users across Android and iOS, adding a tournament-themed touch to Status interactions.
Several users shared screenshots of the feature on social media, showing that when someone likes a WhatsApp Status, the familiar green heart is replaced by a rolling football animation. The update is available for a limited period and is tied to the World Cup celebrations.
The feature coincided with the FIFA World Cup 2026 final between Spain and Argentina, one of the tournament’s most anticipated fixtures. Spain went on to defeat Argentina 1-0 after extra time, with Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal in the 106th minute to secure Spain’s second FIFA World Cup title.
This isn’t the first time WhatsApp has introduced limited-time experiences around major sporting events. The platform has previously launched themed stickers, chat wallpapers, emoji effects and in-app animations during global tournaments to boost fan engagement. The latest football-themed Status reaction continues that trend, bringing the excitement of the World Cup into everyday conversations.
FAQs
- What is WhatsApp’s new football Status feature?
WhatsApp has temporarily replaced the usual heart animation for Status likes with a football-themed animation to celebrate the FIFA World Cup 2026 final. - Why is WhatsApp showing a football instead of a heart?
The change is part of WhatsApp’s FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in collaboration with adidas, bringing football-themed animations to the app during the tournament. - Is the WhatsApp football Status animation permanent?
No. The feature is a limited-time experience introduced to mark the FIFA World Cup 2026 and is expected to be available only during the tournament period. - Who won the FIFA World Cup 2026?
Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time, with Ferran Torres scoring the winning goal to clinch Spain’s second FIFA World Cup title. - Does the feature work on both Android and iPhone?
The football-themed Status like animation has been spotted by users on both Android and iOS, although availability may vary depending on the app version and rollout.
