World Cup 2026: A History of Soccer, Politics & America’s Growing Love for the Game
This summer, as the world’s attention turns to the FIFA World Cup hosted across North America, a crucial question arises: can a global sporting event truly transcend geopolitical tensions? The tournament’s history is inextricably linked to political currents, a theme explored in Roger Bennett’s new book, We Are the World (Cup), which examines the intersection of soccer, culture and international affairs. Bennett’s function serves as a timely reminder that the lovely game doesn’t exist in a vacuum, and this year’s competition will likely be no exception.
The book begins with the 1978 World Cup in Argentina, a tournament held under the shadow of a brutal military junta that had seized power two years prior. This period, known as the “Dirty War,” was marked by widespread human rights abuses, including the disappearance and murder of tens of thousands of Argentinians. The 1978 FIFA World Cup, as Bennett details, offered a temporary respite from the terror, but also served as a propaganda tool for the regime. The Argentine victory over the Netherlands, secured after extra time with a final score of 3-1 at River Plate’s Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, became a symbol of national unity – carefully orchestrated by the government.
A Personal History Woven with Global Events
We Are the World (Cup) isn’t solely a political analysis; it’s deeply personal. Bennett recounts his own experience as a seven-year-old witnessing Argentina’s triumph, and how that moment sparked a lifelong passion for the sport. The book traces his journey from growing up in England to becoming a prominent voice in American soccer coverage through his media network, Men in Blazers. It’s a story of how a game can become a safe space, a shared experience that connects millions across borders and cultures. As Bennett writes, the World Cup is “far more precious than mere sport.”
The narrative skillfully interweaves personal anecdotes with broader historical context. Bennett doesn’t shy away from acknowledging the complexities of the game’s relationship with politics, but he also celebrates its ability to inspire joy, foster community, and provide moments of collective catharsis. He details his own “one-man crusade to expand the vacuum that was American football coverage,” highlighting the evolution of soccer’s popularity in the United States.
The Evolution of Soccer in the U.S.
The contrast between the 1994 World Cup, hosted in the U.S., and the current landscape is stark. Bennett notes that a poll taken before the 1994 tournament revealed that 71% of Americans were unaware it was even happening, and another 29% simply didn’t care. Soccer was ranked as the 67th most popular sport in the country, trailing even tractor pulling. Today, the situation is dramatically different. The rise of Major League Soccer (MLS), the success of the U.S. Women’s national team, and the arrival of global superstars like Lionel Messi have all contributed to a growing soccer fanbase in America.
This shift in perception is significant as the U.S. Prepares to co-host the 2026 World Cup alongside Mexico and Canada. With nearly 50 countries participating, the tournament promises to be the largest in history. However, the event is also taking place against a backdrop of geopolitical instability and complex immigration policies.
Geopolitical Challenges and the 2026 Tournament
The 2026 World Cup isn’t immune to the world’s current challenges. Concerns have been raised regarding visa restrictions for citizens of countries like Haiti, Senegal, and Ivory Coast, even as their national teams participate in the tournament. Reports indicate that Iranian officials are exploring the possibility of having their matches played in Mexico instead of the U.S., likely due to ongoing tensions between the two countries. NPR reported on these negotiations, highlighting the delicate diplomatic considerations surrounding the event.
These issues underscore the inherent political dimensions of the World Cup. As Bennett argues, when teams take the field, they carry with them the weight of their nation’s history, politics, and culture. The tournament becomes a stage for both sporting competition and geopolitical maneuvering.
Navigating Ticket Sales and Fair Access
Beyond the geopolitical considerations, practical challenges also loom. The process of securing tickets for the 2026 World Cup has been criticized for its complexity and lack of transparency. As NPR’s Planet Money reported, concerns have been raised about the fairness of the ticket allocation system and the potential for resale at inflated prices. FIFA faces the task of ensuring that the tournament is accessible to fans from all backgrounds, not just those with the financial means to afford premium tickets.
The questions surrounding this summer’s tournament are numerous. Will the U.S., Mexico, and Canada successfully navigate the logistical and political complexities? Will the games offer a much-needed moment of unity and joy amidst global turmoil? We Are the World (Cup) doesn’t provide definitive answers, but it offers a valuable framework for understanding the intricate relationship between soccer and the world around it.
Looking ahead, the success of the 2026 World Cup will depend on FIFA’s ability to address these challenges proactively. This includes ensuring fair access to tickets, mitigating geopolitical tensions, and upholding the values of inclusivity and sportsmanship. The tournament has the potential to be a celebration of global unity, but only if these issues are addressed with sensitivity and transparency. Ongoing monitoring of visa policies, diplomatic negotiations, and ticket sales practices will be crucial in the months leading up to the event.