No fouls, just furry paws at this World Cup event in Miami. See the photos
Could this be the fiercest World Cup match in Miami? Maybe not — but it was definitely a contender for the cutest.
On Saturday, some of South Florida’s most competitive athletes faced off at a mini stadium set up at Haulover Park.
Taking a page out of the Super Bowl’s Puppy Bowl playbook, Miami-Dade County invited dogs of all breeds and ages — and their humans — to attend the “World Pup,” a soccer-themed event where dogs, many up for adoption, represented some of South Florida’s most popular soccer teams.
Pet adoptions, a local market and food trucks were available at the event organized by Debris Free Oceans (DFO), a local non-profit organization that aims to help Miami-Dade communities reduce waste, in collaboration with Miami-Dade County’s Department of Environmental Resources Management and Miami-Dade Animal Services Department.
The real goal? Highlighting pet adoptions while also teaching dog owners why it’s important to pick up dog waste, and how to dispose of it properly.
“The World Pup is all about having fun with our fur babies while learning about the importance of pet adoption and picking up pet waste,” said Caiti Waks, DFO’s co-founder and president.
“Biscayne Bay and Miami-Dade’s natural beauty will serve as the backdrop of this year’s World Cup, making its protection more important than ever. Tourists, residents, and dog owners can help do their part!” said Loren Parra, DERM director and chief resilience officer. “Picking up after your pet is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent harmful bacteria from entering storm drains and ultimately reaching the Bay. Even miles inland, uncollected pet waste can wash into waterways after rainfall, harming water quality, local wildlife, and public health.”
DFO also helps lead the Zero Waste Miami coalition, which encourages reusables rather than disposable items at World Cup events under the #KickTheCup campaign.
Take a look at the action:
This story was originally published May 30, 2026 at 3:13 PM.