The 2026 World Cup made history by being staged simultaneously in the United States, Canada and Mexico, turning the tournament into a truly continental celebration. Spain secured the championship with a dominant performance, marking their second title in just 16 years and reinforcing the global reach of the competition.
Survey highlights
A poll of 2,000 U.S. respondents conducted in July 2026 found that a quarter of those surveyed watched soccer for the first time because of the tournament. More than half said they are now more inclined to follow an MLS team, and nearly half would choose a soccer match over a college football game. Just under 40% would prefer soccer to the NFL, underscoring a measurable shift in viewing habits.
Interest in specific player jerseys illustrates which stars have captured American attention. Lionel Messi’s Argentina shirt topped the list with 52% of respondents naming it their most desired, while Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal jersey followed closely at 44%. Erling Haaland’s Norway kit attracted 36% of those polled, and Jude Bellingham’s England shirt resonated particularly with Millennial and Gen X women.
The survey also revealed a strong appetite for experiencing elite soccer live abroad. Over half of the participants expressed a desire to travel to Europe to watch top‑level matches, and Millennial men emerged as the most enthusiastic about attending Premier League or La Liga games in person. Despite the growing enthusiasm, analysts note that soccer still has ground to cover before becoming a permanent obsession in the United States.