The intensity of the last World Cup in 2022 showcased the spirit of victory and tension in sports, and how powerfully an audience can share passion for a shared cause even without prior sports knowledge. Fortunately, the essence of soccer is set to return this summer.
Starting this June, the 2026 FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) World Cup will consist of three different hosts for the first time in history — Canada, Mexico, and the United States — marking a major shift in how the tournament is traditionally staged. Every four years, FIFA holds the World Cup, featuring matches between various national soccer teams. The 2026 tournament is set to last approximately 39 days, from June 11 to July 19, 2026, highlighting the growing influence of soccer in North America, especially in the U.S.
“What I’m most excited about when it comes to the new format is the opportunity smaller countries have to turn up,” said sophomore Angel Romo. “With the new addition, countries that haven’t played in previous World Cups can now make it, giving them the opportunity to shine in a way they never have before.”
Typically, the tournament is set up so 32 teams compete against each other until qualifiers into a final tournament. However, this summer, it will feature an expansion of 48 teams, held in 16 cities within the three North American countries. There will be 11 host cities in the U.S., three in Mexico, and two in Canada. Hosting across three nations allows FIFA to accommodate the expanded 48-team format, ]]making the tournament more inclusive and globally representative.
“Several people will be able to go watch from three different countries which I believe is going to make this world cup very diverse and unique compared to previous years,” said Romo.
Furthermore, the tournament will help grow soccer’s popularity within the U.S., strengthening the sport’s presence alongside other well-recognized sports in the country. By a significant margin, American football dominates viewership in the U.S., with the Super Bowl being the most watched television program in the country. While less in popularity, basketball and baseball follow behind in the ranks of viewership.
Meanwhile, the influence of soccer holds less significance amongst other well-enjoyed sports in the United States. The 2026 World Cup is set to change this, however; with a total of 104 matches, the U.S. will hold the majority of the matches including the final game, positioning it as the center of the tournament. With 11 host cities, the U.S. will not only remarkably impact American soccer presence, but also showcase its strong ability to host large-scale global events as a leader on the world stage.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will represent not just a sporting event, but the rising influence of soccer in the U.S. and across North America. By hosting the World Cup, especially with the U.S. taking a leading role, the tournament will set the stage for an impactful era of global sports engagement well beyond the final match.
