As the United States prepares to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a milestone event is on the horizon - marking 32 years since the country last welcomed the world's top football teams. Since then, the sport has undergone a remarkable transformation, shifting from a niche interest to a full-fledged national obsession. The growing popularity of the US Men's National Team, coupled with the rise of Major League Soccer (MLS), has helped bridge the gap between American football and soccer. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, the question remains: can the United States stage a successful tournament and cement its position as a soccer powerhouse?
In the 32 years since the United States last hosted the Cup, football has moved from the margins to the mainstream.
