Kamala Harris ‘curse’ blamed after US lose 3-2 to Turkey as ex-VP's photo sparks viral memes

The United States' dramatic 3-2 defeat to Turkey in their final FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage match has triggered an unusual social media frenzy, with many users reviving the so-called "Kamala Harris curse" after a photograph of the former US Vice President at the stadium went viral.

The claim has no factual basis and is part of an internet meme that humorously attributes defeats by sports teams and political setbacks to Harris' attendance at public events.

Following Turkey's stoppage-time winner in Los Angeles, social media platforms, particularly X, were flooded with posts joking that Harris' presence had brought bad luck to the American team. Several users shared images of the former vice president in the stands alongside tongue-in-cheek captions suggesting the "curse" had struck again.

The meme has surfaced on multiple occasions in recent years whenever a team or political campaign associated with Harris suffered an unexpected setback. There is, however, no evidence supporting any connection between her attendance at events and their outcomes.

A social media joke, not a real phenomenon

The "Kamala Harris curse" is widely regarded as an online joke rather than a genuine belief. Internet users often resurrect the meme after high-profile defeats, treating it as a humorous superstition rather than a factual claim.

Fact-checkers and political observers have repeatedly noted that the meme is rooted in coincidence and selective examples rather than any verifiable pattern.

Turkey spoil USA's unbeaten run

On the pitch, Turkey secured a memorable 3-2 victory thanks to Kaan Ayhan's stoppage-time goal after a thrilling contest in Los Angeles.

Despite the defeat, the United States had already qualified for the Round of 32 as Group D winners. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino rotated his squad heavily, making nine changes to the starting lineup ahead of the knockout phase.

Turkey, meanwhile, exited the tournament despite the victory, finishing third in the group after earlier defeats left them unable to qualify.

Fans embrace the meme

As highlights of the match spread online, the viral conversation quickly shifted from football tactics to memes, with thousands of users sharing edited images and humorous reactions involving Harris.

While the posts generated significant engagement, many others reminded viewers that the "curse" is simply an internet running joke with no basis in reality. The former vice president has not publicly commented on the viral trend.