Soccer in the United States has come a long way since the 1994 World Cup, a tournament that first raised the question of whether the sport could find a lasting foothold on this side of the Atlantic. Today, the prospect of hosting the 2026 edition is being hailed as a watershed moment that could cement its place in the national sporting landscape.
A historic tournament re‑imagined
The growth has been propelled in part by high‑profile players such as Lionel Messi and Son Heung‑Min, who have chosen to showcase their talent in Major League Soccer, drawing fans and media attention that were unimaginable a decade ago.
Don Garber, the commissioner of Major League Soccer, argues that the 2026 World Cup will not only highlight the sport’s rising relevance in North America but also serve as a catalyst for broader investment in infrastructure and youth development.
Meanwhile, the United Soccer League is preparing to introduce promotion and relegation, a move that could reshape the competitive pyramid and add a new layer of excitement for clubs and supporters alike.
Grassroots inspiration
In Lawrence, Kansas, community training sessions led by the Algerian national team have sparked enthusiasm among local children, illustrating how international exposure can translate into grassroots participation.
Despite the enthusiasm, structural barriers remain. High‑level travel teams and many MLS academies require fees that can exclude families without the financial means, reinforcing a pay‑to‑play model that the sport is eager to dismantle.
FIFA’s Forward program, which reinvests funds into member associations worldwide, has already shown its impact. Haiti, Cabo Verde and Curacao have used Forward money to upgrade facilities, expand coaching programs and improve access to equipment.
By the end of 2026, FIFA expects to have allocated $5 billion to the Forward initiative, a financial boost that could further level the playing field for emerging football nations.
U.S. Soccer is actively working to address the pay‑to‑play issue, exploring pathways that allow talented youth to compete regardless of socioeconomic background, with the aim of building a deeper talent pool for the national teams.
If the 2026 World Cup delivers on its promise, it could inspire a new generation of players, reshape youth pathways and cement soccer’s place as a mainstream sport in the United States.