Football's greatest tournament is not just about goals and glory; it's also a treasure trove of bizarre and unforgettable anecdotes. This week, a selection of standout podcasts delves into the weirdest and wildest tales from the World Cup's rich history, offering listeners a fresh perspective on the beautiful game.
Icons: Football's Idiosyncratic World Cup Moments
A compelling new series from the football site Goal dedicates each episode to one of the last ten World Cups, focusing on a singular, idiosyncratic moment. Narrated by the legendary commentator Martin Tyler, who has covered the last twelve tournaments, the podcast unearths stories that have become part of football folklore.
One episode revisits the story behind Brazilian striker Ronaldo's bizarre 2002 haircut, a triangular style that captivated global audiences during the tournament in Japan and South Korea. Another profile examines the shirts Argentina played in during their victorious 1986 campaign, which were reportedly improvised, bootleg versions of their own official kit.
Beyond the Pitch: This Week's Essential Listens
Alongside the football deep-dives, several other podcasts demand attention. Delayland, from German state broadcaster DW, challenges national stereotypes of efficiency by exploring the country's tardy trains and crisis-hit auto industry.
From the makers of Pod Save America comes Runaway Country, a smart Crooked Media series hosted by journalist Alex Wagner. It features frank conversations with Americans feeling politically adrift, including an episode critically examining the 'Make America Great Again' movement titled "Making America White Again".
Luxury, Redemption, and High-End Interviews
For those seeking a different flavour, The Luxury Dispatch offers accessible insights into high-end living. Hosted by The Rake magazine's editor-in-chief Tom Chamberlin, its opening episode features Bridesmaids director Paul Feig sharing stories from a childhood trip to a Las Vegas casino during a Muhammad Ali fight to making a martini for King Charles.
Finally, the Life After Prison series presents a special strand, Cellmate to CEO. It features candid conversations with former prisoners who have become leaders, such as Soul Surge Wellness CEO Tony Supreme, who speaks thoughtfully about his own lived experience.
These podcasts, available widely across platforms, prove that the most captivating stories often lie just beyond the mainstream narrative, whether found on the hallowed turf of a World Cup semi-final or in the journey of personal redemption.
