Emerging
Jun 18, 2026 Major2
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New Zealand's Viral World Cup Star Tim Payne Signs With Paraguay's Club Olimpia
New Zealand defender Tim Payne, who gained international fame after being identified by a soccer influencer as the World Cup player with the fewest social media followers, has signed a one-year deal with Paraguay's Club Olimpia. His Instagram following surged from 4,700 to 5.8 million following the viral exposure, attracting interest from multiple South American clubs.
Quick Facts
Who
Tim Payne
What
Tim Payne identified as World Cup player with fewest social media followers
When
June 2026 (World Cup period)
Where
Wellington, New Zealand
- Tim Payne identified as World Cup player with fewest social media followers
- Payne's Instagram followers increased from 4,700 to 5.8 million
- Signed one-year contract with Club Olimpia
- Left Wellington Phoenix after seven years and 149 games
- Multiple clubs from Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Mexico showed interest
New Zealand defender Tim Payne, who became a global sensation after soccer influencer Valen Scarsini identified him as the World Cup player with the smallest social media following, has signed a one-year contract with Paraguay's Club Olimpia. The influencer's viral campaign caused Payne's Instagram followers to skyrocket from 4,700 to 5.8 million, drawing interest from clubs across South America including teams in Argentina, Uruguay, and Mexico. Payne confirmed the transfer on Friday, ending his seven-year tenure with Wellington Phoenix of the A-League, during which he made 149 appearances.
In statements following the announcement, Payne expressed gratitude to the fans and teammates who supported him throughout his career and credited them with enabling his representation of New Zealand at the World Cup. He acknowledged that the decision to leave Wellington Phoenix was difficult, given his long association with the club. Despite the challenge of relocating to South America, Payne emphasized his commitment to becoming the best footballer he can be.
Payne views the move as a significant professional opportunity, expressing excitement about competing in top South American competitions including the Copa Libertadores and Copa Sudamericana. He praised Club Olimpia as one of South America's biggest clubs, highlighting its rich history, passionate fanbase, and ambitious goals. Olimpia, which recently secured Paraguay's Copa de Primera Apertura title for the 48th time, represents one of the continent's most prestigious institutions in club football.
Why This Matters
Tim Payne's transfer illustrates how digital influence and social media virality can dramatically reshape a professional athlete's career trajectory and market value. For readers, this story demonstrates the increasing importance of personal brand and online presence in modern sports, while also showcasing how emerging talent from smaller leagues can attract international opportunities through strategic exposure. It also highlights the global interconnectedness of soccer recruitment networks and the significant financial incentives tied to social media followings.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 18, 2026
WireTim Payne confirms signing with Club Olimpia on a one-year contract