The 2026 FIFA World Cup draw in Los Angeles was meant to be a glamorous showcase, but for former England and Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand, his supporting role has become a major talking point for all the wrong reasons. Ferdinand's attempts at acting in a series of promotional videos have been widely ridiculed across social media platforms, drawing sharp criticism from viewers.
A Protracted and Awkward Build-Up
The event itself was preceded by a lengthy build-up segment that lasted nearly one hour and 30 minutes before the actual draw commenced. During this extended preamble, Ferdinand featured in several scripted videos. He was seen rubbing shoulders with Hollywood A-listers Matthew McConaughey and Salma Hayek, attempting to blend sports royalty with cinematic star power.
In another segment, the football pundit took part in explanatory videos designed to illustrate how the World Cup tournament functions, this time engaging with a group of young children. The intention was clearly to add celebrity appeal and simplify the complex draw process for a global audience. However, the execution, particularly Ferdinand's delivery, failed to resonate.
Social Media Delivers a Harsh Verdict
Viewers watching the broadcast quickly took to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to voice their disapproval. The consensus was that Ferdinand's foray into acting was painfully awkward. One user did not mince words, writing: 'Rio Ferdinand’s acting is absolutely terrible.'
Another echoed the sentiment, posting: 'Rio Ferdinand acting is so cringe' alongside a GIF of an unimpressed and disgusted face. The criticism was not isolated, with numerous posts and comments panning the former centre-back's performance, suggesting his skillset is firmly rooted in the football studio rather than in front of a scripted camera.
Legacy Unaffected But Pride Dented
While the online roasting is unlikely to impact Rio Ferdinand's standing as a football legend and respected broadcaster, the episode serves as a stark reminder of the perils of live television and the unforgiving nature of social media commentary. The focus has sharply shifted from the footballing spectacle of the 2026 World Cup draw to an unexpected critique of an ex-player's presenting style.
The incident highlights how even revered sports figures can face intense public scrutiny when stepping outside their recognised expertise, with the digital world offering immediate and often brutal feedback.
