Fans across Utah gathered this week to mark the kickoff of the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, even though Salt Lake City is not among the tournament’s host cities.
A Community Gathers
Large outdoor screens lit up plazas and parking lots, broadcasting the opening matches to crowds eager for a shared experience. The events featured food trucks, games and a bounce house, turning public spaces into festive gathering spots.
For many attendees, the gatherings were more than just soccer; they were a chance to celebrate cultural ties. Andres Valadez, who moved from Mexico to Sandy in 2016, described the scene as a joyful blend of his homeland’s passion with Utah’s growing soccer community.
Organizers have announced a series of additional watch parties, including one scheduled for the U.S. men’s national team’s match on Friday. Several bars in the Salt Lake City area will also host screenings, ensuring that the excitement continues throughout the tournament.
The watch parties reflect a broader shift: soccer, long a niche sport in the United States, is gaining a foothold in Utah’s cultural fabric. Local fans say such events are still rare, making each gathering a noteworthy milestone in the sport’s regional rise.