A Predicting Octopus
Paul, an octopus living at the Sea Life Centre in Oberhausen, Germany, gained global fame during the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Born in 2008, Paul became renowned for predicting the outcomes of football matches with surprising accuracy.
The Method
During the tournament, Paul was presented with two boxes, each containing food and the flag of competing teams. Whichever box Paul chose would be considered his prediction. Remarkably, Paul accurately predicted all of Germany’s matches and the final between Spain and the Netherlands.
Global Sensation
Paul’s success rate—correctly predicting 12 out of 14 matches—made him an international sensation. Media outlets across the world covered his picks, and football fans eagerly awaited his predictions before each match. His final prediction, Spain’s victory over the Netherlands in the 2010 World Cup final, was spot on.
Paul’s Final Days
Paul retired from making predictions after the World Cup and lived out his life in the aquarium. He passed away in October 2010.
Paul the Octopus: The Unlikely World Cup Predictor ⚽️
A Predicting Octopus
Paul, an octopus living at the Sea Life Centre in Oberhausen, Germany, gained global fame during the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Born in 2008, Paul became renowned for predicting the outcomes of football matches… pic.twitter.com/uYTxfVFUzA— Detective Tiger’s Stories (@TigerDetective) October 24, 2024