Mark your calendars, soccer enthusiasts—the FIFA World Cup 2026 is just 500 days away! On June 11, 2026, Mexico City will kick off the biggest World Cup in history, featuring 48 teams playing 104 matches across North America. This monumental event, shared by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is expected to draw at least 5 million fans to stadiums and captivate over 6 billion viewers worldwide.
For the U.S., the tournament will cap a three-year stretch of hosting major soccer events, following the 2024 Copa America and 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. As anticipation builds, let’s dive into the state of soccer in the U.S., exploring the key players and storylines that will shape the road to 2026.
Trump: Soccer’s Unexpected Champion in the U.S.
President Donald Trump, in his second term, has surprisingly emerged as a significant supporter of soccer. His attendance at FIFA Club World Cup matches this summer and potential appearances during the World Cup next year are expected to boost the sport’s profile among Americans.
“Soccer is going through the roof in America,” Trump declared during the FIFA Club World Cup draw last December. His burgeoning friendship with FIFA president Gianni Infantino has further strengthened the spotlight on soccer in the U.S. With Trump’s characteristic flair and global platform, his support could galvanize new fans and add a unique dynamic to the tournament.
Lionel Messi: A Legend’s Last Hurrah?
Arguably the greatest soccer player of all time, Lionel Messi, remains central to the sport’s global appeal. Now with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS), Messi has not confirmed whether he’ll play in the 2026 World Cup, but his presence at both the Club World Cup and potentially the World Cup would be monumental for soccer in the U.S.
Messi will be 39 when the World Cup begins—an age where most players have retired—but fans worldwide hope for one last dazzling performance. Regardless of his decision, his influence on the game and its growth in North America is undeniable.
USMNT’s Preparations Underway
The U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) has embarked on its World Cup preparation journey under new head coach Mauricio Pochettino. The Argentine tactician faces the daunting challenge of leading the host nation to a respectable performance on home soil.
The USMNT’s standout player, Christian Pulisic, is a certainty for the squad, but building a team capable of progressing beyond the knockout stages remains a priority. After a disappointing Copa America in 2024, where they failed to reach the knockout stage, expectations are tempered.
Before the World Cup, the USMNT will compete in the Concacaf Nations League semifinals in March and the Gold Cup this summer. Matches will take place across cities like Los Angeles, Phoenix, and Vancouver, offering fans a preview of the team’s potential.
World Cup 2026: What to Expect
The 2026 World Cup promises thrilling storylines beyond Messi. France’s Kylian Mbappe will seek to lead his team to a third consecutive final, while Brazil’s Neymar and rising stars like Vinícius Júnior and Lamine Yamal will command global attention.
In North America, games will unfold in iconic cities like Atlanta, Dallas, Miami, and Seattle, alongside matches in Mexico’s Guadalajara and Canada’s Toronto and Vancouver. The final, set for July 19, will take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Learning from Past Challenges: Security and Fan Experience
The 2024 Copa America highlighted the importance of robust security and efficient crowd management. The tournament’s final in Miami was marred by unruly fans without tickets breaching fences and ventilation systems, leading to distressing scenes of injuries and chaos.
FIFA and World Cup organizers face mounting pressure to ensure that such incidents are not repeated. Improved security measures and a seamless fan experience will be critical for the tournament’s success.
MLS’s Role in Soccer Growth
Major League Soccer (MLS) has made remarkable strides, entering its 30th season with record-breaking attendance and engagement. Over 12 million fans attended matches last season, and the league’s social media following is growing faster than any other American sports league.
With Messi’s presence elevating MLS’s global profile, the league’s expansion continues with San Diego FC joining as its 30th team. MLS Commissioner Don Garber has emphasized the league’s commitment to capitalizing on North America’s growing soccer momentum.
FIFA Club World Cup: A Prelude to 2026
The FIFA Club World Cup this summer will serve as a precursor to the World Cup, bringing 32 of the world’s top clubs to compete in cities like Miami, Los Angeles, and Atlanta. Participating teams include global powerhouses like Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich, as well as MLS’s Seattle Sounders.
Messi’s Inter Miami will open the tournament on June 14, and the final will be held in New Jersey. This event will test the U.S.’s readiness to host soccer on the world stage, offering fans a glimpse of the excitement to come.
The Road Ahead
As the countdown to World Cup 2026 continues, the spotlight on soccer in the U.S. will only intensify. Trump’s unexpected role, Messi’s enduring legacy, and the USMNT’s journey promise to make the next 500 days an exhilarating ride for fans.
With millions of spectators expected to attend and billions tuning in globally, the 2026 World Cup is poised to be a transformative moment for soccer in North America. From the roaring crowds to the dazzling displays of skill, it will be a tournament for the ages, uniting fans across borders and igniting passion for the beautiful game.
Get ready, soccer fans—the countdown to 2026 has officially begun!
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