A New Era for Soccer in America
The recent World Cup in the United States drew a staggering audience, with over 20 million viewers tuning in to see the U.S. Men’s national team secure a spot in the round of 32.
Duncan Oughton, a former New Zealand international who earned more than 20 caps for his country, reflects on the historic significance of the tournament and its potential to ignite broader interest in soccer across the nation.
Oughton believes the exposure will translate into a measurable boost for both the United States and Columbus, pointing to the city’s growing soccer culture and the upcoming friendly between the Columbus Crew and Burnley in July.
The 1994 World Cup laid the groundwork for Major League Soccer, and two decades later the financial stakes are evident: the Columbus Crew’s valuation has risen from roughly $5 million at the league’s inception to an estimated $735 million‑$900 million today.
Expansion teams such as FC Cincinnati, which paid a $150 million fee in 2018, and the recently announced San Diego FC, whose franchise cost reached $500 million five years later, illustrate the growing economic footprint of the sport.
Jesse Ghiorzi of the Columbus Sports Commission describes World Cups as a “galvanizing moment for the sport,” emphasizing how such events can accelerate fan engagement and institutional growth.
Beyond men’s soccer, Oughton is excited about the prospect of a women’s team arriving in Columbus, noting that new role models could inspire his three daughters and countless other young athletes.
The city’s soccer ambitions also include an expanding NWSL presence, underscoring a multi‑layered strategy to deepen the sport’s roots in the community.