In the summer of 2010, football had a new star. Not Messi. Not Ronaldo. But an octopus named Paul.

From his tank in Germany, Paul correctly predicted 8 out of 8 matches—including the final.

Housed at Sea Life Centre in Oberhausen, Germany, Paul was presented with two boxes before each match. Each box had a mussel and a flag representing the competing countries. He chose by opening and eating from one box.

Simple. Strange. Mysterious.

Paul gained attention when he predicted Germany would beat England in the Round of 16. Then, he said Germany would lose to Spain in the semis. People were furious—until he was proven right. Again.

Paul picked Spain as world champion—and they won!

Paul became an international celebrity. Featured in global media. Inspired memes, art, and satire. Had a documentary made about him. Received death threats from angry fans.

He even received “honorary citizenship” in some places!

Sadly, Paul passed away in October 2010, shortly after the World Cup.
He was only 2 years old—an average age for a common octopus.
Sea Life built a golden statue in his honor. 🕯️

Paul wasn’t just a meme.
He became a symbol of hope, mystery, and football magic—proving that during the World Cup, even an octopus can become a legend.

Thanks for reading