League: MLS Sport: Soccer Country: United States Category: Transactions

Tim Payne meets social media star El Scarso after World Cup boost

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 4, 2026, 9:09 AM

Last updated Jun 4, 2026

Tim Payne meets social media star El Scarso after World Cup boost

Summary

New Zealand international Tim Payne has seen his social media following surge from 4,000 to over 4 million thanks to Argentine influencer El Scarso. Following New Zealand’s World Cup warm-up against Haiti, the two met in Miami, where Payne expressed gratitude for the newfound attention. El Scarso had highlighted Payne as the 'most unknown player' at the World Cup, prompting his followers to support him. The pair discussed the impact of this rapid change on Payne's life and on the New Zealand national team.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Tim Payne's social media following increased dramatically before the World Cup.
•El Scarso recognized Payne as the 'most unknown player' in the tournament.
•The meeting took place in Miami after New Zealand's warm-up match against Haiti.
•Payne and El Scarso exchanged appreciation and a signed jersey.
•Both expressed interest in visiting each other’s home countries.

Latest Updates

9:09 AMYahoo Sports — 🎥 First meeting! Social media star made World Cup driver famous

What they're saying

"
Until a few days ago, New Zealand international Tim Payne was probably known to only a handful of football fans. Practically overnight, his number of social media followers multiplied a thousandfold �...
— Yahoo Sports

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