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Soccer

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The World Cup Without Grant Wahl

A personal reflection on the missing presence of journalist Grant Wahl at the World Cup, recalling his ties, talent, and lasting impact.

Jun 15, 2026

NPR Prepares Comprehensive Coverage of 2026 FIFA World Cup Across North America

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will unfold over a historic 40‑day stretch, kicking off on June 11 and culminating with the final on July 19, 2026. Sixteen host cities across North America have been selected, including Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Seattle, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Boston, Kansas City, Miami and New York. The NPR Network is gearing up to deliver continuous coverage that begins weeks before the opening whistle and stretches through the championship match. Leveraging its extensive radio, digital and television platforms, NPR will provide live match commentary, in‑depth analysis, player profiles and on‑the‑ground reporting from each host city. Listeners can expect daily briefings, special podcasts and interactive graphics that explore the tournament’s storylines, from emerging talents to historic rivalries. Reporters will be embedded with teams, attend press conferences and bring back stories that capture the spirit of the global event while highlighting local flavors in each host community. Beyond the matches, NPR will explore the cultural impact of the World Cup across the United States, Canada and Mexico, examining how the tournament influences music, art and community gatherings. The network’s coverage will also feature interviews with fans, coaches and officials, offering a panoramic view of the sport’s growing popularity in the region. For those unable to attend games in person, NPR’s digital streams will offer real‑time updates, score alerts and behind‑the‑scenes footage, ensuring that the excitement reaches every corner of the continent. As the tournament progresses, NPR will continuously adapt its programming to reflect the evolving narratives and surprising moments that define the world’s most watched sporting event.

Jun 15, 2026