Cologne Zoo Animals Predict Germany's World Cup 2026 Opener
Published June 15, 2026
A German zoo has introduced an elephant and an orangutan to predict outcomes for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with their first predictions for Germany's match against Curacao yielding a split result.
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As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, a new pair of animal prognosticators have emerged from Cologne Zoo, aiming to carry on a unique tradition of wildlife forecasting. Tarak the elephant and Walter the orangutan have made their initial predictions for Germany's opening match against Curacao, setting the stage for an intriguing start to the tournament.
Tarak, an Asian elephant known for his playful interaction with footballs, was presented with two spheres adorned with the flags of Germany and Curacao. The pachyderm reportedly crushed the ball representing Curacao while leaving the German one untouched, signaling a victory for the European powerhouse in his estimation. However, the predictions took a turn with Walter the orangutan.
Walter, offered two food-filled boxes marked with the competing nations' flags, opted for the Curacao box, suggesting a different outcome for the highly anticipated fixture. This split verdict immediately brings to mind the legendary Paul the Octopus, who famously achieved global recognition during the 2010 FIFA World Cup for accurately predicting Germany's results and the final winner.
Paul's remarkable track record, which included correctly calling every German match in 2010 and several during the 2008 European Championship, set a high bar for any successor. The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will feature an expanded format with 48 teams competing for the first time. Football fans will be watching to see if Tarak and Walter can live up to Paul's iconic legacy as the tournament unfolds in June and July 2026.