There’s no obligation to praise FIFA, yet one must recognize the 2026 World Cup’s success in fulfilling its intended goals. The matches were engaging, filled with tension and drama, although the quality of play varied. Regardless, attendance was robust, with fans flocking to stadiums in droves. The tournament produced memorable moments, unexpected upsets, and heroic narratives that felt genuine rather than contrived. Financially, it proved immensely profitable, generating billions more than FIFA’s own estimates.
This World Cup also contributed to the normalization of the controversial hydration breaks, whether or not they were truly necessary. While spectators expressed discontent this time around, future tournaments may see a more casual acceptance of such practices. Although FIFA insists it did not profit from these commercial pauses, the implications for broadcaster revenues will undoubtedly arise in future negotiations.
The expansion to a 48-team format was largely successful, as many of the weakest teams were not among the newcomers. In fact, discussions are already underway among sports executives about potentially increasing the field to 64 teams, a notion that is gaining traction.
Overall, everything transpired as expected, hitting all the marks set by organizers.
This distinctly American World Cup absorbed a multitude of elements from U.S. culture—countdowns, halftime spectacles, championship rings, commercial interruptions, and even the iconic announcer urging fans to get hyped. The match timings, dynamic pricing strategies, and other features were reminiscent of American sporting events.
However, what legacy does this event leave behind?
FIFA once maintained that the World Cup aimed to promote soccer and expand its reach into new territories. With a somewhat dull and contentious final, one wonders if it will have lasting significance. Will this World Cup be remembered fondly in years to come? What will be the state of soccer in North America following this tournament?
Responses from Host Nations
These questions can be broken down into three areas. Mexico, hosting the World Cup for the third time, is likely satisfied with its performance. Mexico’s national team, known as El Tri, made it to the coveted “let’s get ready to rumble” but fell short, exiting in the Round of 16, as they have in every World Cup since 1994.
Canada, the only first-time host, also achieved new milestones on the field. Although they experienced a tough 3-0 defeat to Morocco, the nation hosted memorable celebrations that will linger in the memories of visitors.
As for the United States, the legacy of this tournament appears more complex. The games were perceived as exclusive and unattainable for many. FIFA’s structure ensured that the substantial profits would first return to Switzerland, leaving little for local organizers to reinvest in the sport, unlike in 1994. The U.S. Soccer Federation found itself sidelined, struggling to make a meaningful impact at grassroots levels.
Impact on Soccer Popularity
Did this World Cup generate new fans for soccer? It’s unlikely that many attendees were casual observers willing to spend thousands just for a chance to enjoy the sport. While television ratings indicated an increase in viewers, it’s uncertain if they will become devoted fans. The true impact may take years to assess.
Soccer does not suffer from a lack of popularity in the United States; it has been steadily gaining traction. Any new fans are welcome, but the sport is already woven into the American cultural fabric.
However, the U.S. faces significant access challenges. Many youths are shut out of recreational soccer due to the hyper-commercialized pay-to-play model. Talented players often lack access to quality coaching that emphasizes skill development over winning. There remains an urgent need for accessible fields, equipment, and opportunities for unstructured play.
Future Prospects for American Soccer
Will this World Cup address any of these access issues?
From FIFA’s perspective, this edition served as a successful demonstration that expansion is feasible without negative consequences. It showed that the organization can impose exorbitant prices and still reap substantial rewards, continuing to push boundaries with its various innovations.
Given the same reasoning that led to Gianni Infantino’s orchestrating of the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia, a return to the U.S. in 2038 seems plausible. There are also discussions regarding the FIFA Club World Cup returning to American soil in 2029, alongside plans for a co-hosted Women’s World Cup in 2031.
Ultimately, FIFA may have established a new stronghold here, creating a colony of sorts.
- Leander Schaerlaeckens is the author ofThe Long Game: U.S. Men’s Soccer and Its Savage, Four-Decade Journey to the Top, or Thereabouts, which is out now. He teaches at Marist University.
