Canadian rapper Drake has suffered a significant financial loss after Spain defeated Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on Sunday, July 19, 2026. Drake placed a $1.5 million wager (over N2 billion) on Argentina to win the tournament, but Spain secured the title with a decisive goal in extra time, leaving his bet worthless.
Details of the Bet and Outcome
According to reports, Drake, whose real name is Aubrey Drake Graham, placed the bet through the Stake platform, backing Lionel Messi's Argentina side. A victory for Argentina would have earned the Grammy-winning rapper more than $5.1 million in winnings. Instead, Spain's triumph marked their second World Cup title, while Drake's multimillion-dollar stake was lost.
The 'Drake Curse' Reignites
The loss has sparked widespread discussion on social media about the so-called 'Drake curse,' a popular internet superstition suggesting that any athlete or team publicly endorsed or backed by Drake is destined to lose. Many fans argue that Drake's support sealed Argentina's fate, contributing to Messi's side falling short on the biggest stage. The curse narrative has gained such traction that fans now monitor Drake's betting activity as a counter-indicator for winners.
This is not the first time Drake has lost a high-profile wager. Earlier in 2026, he backed former UFC champion Conor McGregor, who lost to Max Holloway. The pattern has only fueled the curse theory.
Impact and Reactions
Spain's victory at the 2026 World Cup is a historic achievement for the team, while for Drake, it represents another costly reminder of his risky betting habits. The rapper's financial loss has been widely covered in entertainment and sports news, with fans and commentators weighing in on the curse.
In a related incident, Nollywood actress Destiny Etiko also suffered a loss after betting N5 million on the same match. She described the experience as emotionally draining and vowed never to gamble again, highlighting the high stakes and anxiety involved in such wagers.
