The 2026 World Cup kicked off on June 11, and the United States has already stamped its early dominance by securing back-to-back victories over Paraguay and Australia. For many residents of South Carolina, those wins have amplified a broader sense of excitement that reaches far beyond the U.S. jersey.
Beyond the Stars: Local Communities Back International Contenders
Germany tops the list of secondary favorites, buoyed by a German-born community of 9,567 individuals who have settled in the Palmetto State. The community’s over-index score of 2.32 signals a concentration that outpaces the state average, turning matches involving Die Mannschaft into local gatherings.
Following closely, Panama draws support from 1,575 Panamanian expatriates, yielding a 1.90 over-index score. Their presence, though smaller in number, creates a vibrant enclave that rallies around Los Canaleros during the tournament.
Colombia enjoys the largest footprint among the top five, with 14,627 Colombian-born residents calling South Carolina home. An index of 1.89 reflects the deepest community roots, making the Colombian side a de‑facto hometown team for many.
Brazil’s contingent, comprising 6,896 Brazilian nationals, registers a 1.37 score. While the numbers are modest compared to Colombia, the Brazilian diaspora’s cultural influence ensures that Seleção matches attract considerable attention.
France rounds out the quintet with 1,991 French-born residents and a matching 1.37 over-index score. The French community’s enthusiasm adds a European flair to the local fan landscape.
Counting the Ties That Bind
Covers.com arrived at these rankings by mining the 2024 American Community Survey data released by the U.S. Census Bureau, measuring both raw foreign-born counts and the relative weight of each group within South Carolina’s demographic mosaic. The resulting index highlights where national allegiances intersect with local population patterns.
As the tournament progresses, the blend of national pride and immigrant heritage will continue to shape how South Carolinians experience each match. Whether cheering for the Stars and Stripes or for distant flags that echo home, the World Cup has become a shared celebration that transcends borders.