Robbie Williams Denies Substance Use After World Cup Incident
Pop Star Addresses 'MintGate' Speculation, Confirms 2027 Tour Plans
Image: Eddie Pollard / AI
Carla Rooney
Robbie Williams has publicly denied substance use following a viral incident during a live World Cup interview where a white object appeared to fall from his nostril.
The pop star, who performed at the 2026 World Cup opening ceremony in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, later faced pundits during the final match between Argentina and Spain.
Fans observed a white substance appear to fall from his nostril during this interview, sparking immediate and widespread speculation across social media platforms.
Williams subsequently posted an Instagram apology, claiming the object was a mint. He later retracted this statement, labeling it a 'fake apology.'
He picked up the object during the interview and visibly rubbed it onto his head, where it remained stuck.
Social media users quickly claimed Williams was 'off his nut' at the World Cup final. Numerous viewers asserted he was under the influence.
Williams directly refuted these claims, stating, 'I wasn’t. I’m not. And I haven’t been for a very long time.'
These amateurs think I wouldn’t have crushed that powder until it was as fine as Bahamian sand? Please. I’m not new.
He further clarified his stance on the matter, asserting, 'These amateurs think I wouldn’t have crushed that powder until it was as fine as Bahamian sand? Please. I’m not new.'
This incident, which Williams himself dubbed 'MintGate,' has reportedly reached 51 million people. His subsequent fake apology video garnered over 27 million views.
The widespread attention confirms the intense public scrutiny celebrities face. A single moment can ignite global discussion and speculation.
Historically, public figures have often contended with intense media focus on their personal lives. Modern digital platforms have amplified this phenomenon exponentially.
The immediate and viral nature of 'MintGate' shows how quickly unverified claims can proliferate. This impacts a celebrity's public image within hours, especially given Williams' documented struggles with substance abuse.
He addressed these struggles in his 2023 Netflix docuseries.
Williams shared a photo of himself in a sparkly blue tracksuit, comparing his look to The Sopranos character Paulie 'Walnuts' Gualtieri. This generated 'magnificent' memes.
He commented on the situation, stating, 'It wouldn’t feel right if I appeared on the world stage and absolutely nothing weird happened.'
For someone whose nervous system is permanently convinced we’re moments away from disaster, I’m quite proud that none of it was visible on my face. Well...apart from the Nicorette. The old me did briefly surface today though.
Williams also noted the personal impact, remarking, 'For someone whose nervous system is permanently convinced we’re moments away from disaster, I’m quite proud that none of it was visible on my face.'
He conceded, 'Well...apart from the Nicorette. The old me did briefly surface today though.'
Looking ahead, Williams has announced a 2027 UK and Ireland tour. This includes confirmed dates in Limerick and Lytham St Annes.
This upcoming tour follows the success of his sold-out headline show at Dublin’s Croke Park last summer. This confirms sustained strong public demand for his performances.
Williams is also considered a leading contender to headline Glastonbury. This confirms his enduring appeal and significant presence in the contemporary music landscape.
Despite the viral speculation surrounding the World Cup incident, Williams concluded, 'And now the internet has another thing it’ll be 100% certain happened. 'Remember when Robbie was off his nut at the World Cup?' But that’s showbusiness. And so it goes.'
Meanwhile, FIFA has initiated an investigation into the altercations between players from Spain and Argentina following the 2026 World Cup final.
FIFA confirmed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor has been appointed to review potential breaches of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. The focus remains on post-match incidents, including Argentina defender Nahuel Molina's apparent strike on Spain midfielder Rodri.
The red card given to Leandro Paredes was rescinded. No disciplinary measures were imposed against him.