July 16, 2026

Will American Passion for Soccer Grow After the World Cup?

As the World Cup concludes, questions arise about whether soccer’s popularity in the United States will increase. The tournament showcased an impressive display of talent and garnered attention worldwide. U.S. fans actively engaged with the matches, evident from gatherings such as those in Kansas City on July 6, where they watched the game against Belgium.

Washington Post Opinions writers León Krauze, Will Leitch, Kate Andrews, and Shadi Hamid share their insights on soccer’s future in the U.S.

León Krauze: Can the Americas Return to Glory?

The Americas have a rich soccer history, marked by periods of dominant performance on the international stage. There is potential for these countries, including the U.S., to reclaim their status in international soccer. The increasing interest in the sport could pave the way for a resurgence of glory in future tournaments.

Infrastructure advancements, youth development, and increased investment in the sport are crucial factors that could drive this change. Many countries are focusing on nurturing young talent and providing better facilities to enhance player development.

Additionally, with the evolving dynamics in global competition, teams from the Americas must adapt their strategies to keep up with world-class standards. This strategic adaptability might help revitalize soccer prominence in these regions.

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