By Gabriel Esparza, April 10, 2026
Hosting the World Cup is considered the ultimate honor and highlight in a nation’s history for most countries. Although many United States-based fans will not be able to necessarily relate, children of all ages grow up in awe of the World Cup. The anticipation of the event that only comes around once every four years, seeking to somehow find a way to further urge the national team to be able to compete on this largest stage, holds an incredibly important role in most people’s lives from a global aspect.
The upcoming 2026 World Cup will have a different look from the conventional method in which the soccer governing body, FIFA, typically goes about choosing sites for the tournament.
A single country typically plays host. And while the U.S. is going to be hosting matches for the first time since 1994, the hosting privileges will also be shared with Canada and Mexico.
Spreading things out across three nations will certainly add a different dynamic. One aspect, however, is certain. The cities that do end up serving as a venue for any portion of this event will experience a truly unique and incredible atmosphere.
Two nations competing in the World Cup will have their fans show up in droves to give their undying support. Fan zones and the areas near and around the stadium before, during, and after the game will function as smaller glimpses into the soccer fandom and culture of the traveling parties.
There is, though, still plenty of excitement for those whose national teams are not involved in the specific festivities at any given time or whose teams failed to even qualify. Fans from all around will flood the scene, looking to soak in everything that the beautiful game has to offer.
While a lot of deserved criticisms are being brought up concerning how the U.S. is going about its business as a host nation and how fans have been priced out through ticket prices that have excessively skyrocketed, the meaning and significance of these summer activities will still proceed as they always do every four years. The power and spirit of the fans will still very much be alive and on full display, even if the stadiums themselves end up being more empty than they should be.
The World Cup is for everyone, regardless of what governing bodies choose to do to appease the few.
Whether it is in Atlanta, Kansas City, Seattle, or any of the other host cities, it is well worth exploring everything that the World Cup has to offer. This is something that all, whether avid soccer fans or otherwise, can take part in. It is a great way to create incredible, lasting memories.
Gabriel Esparza joined The Sidearmer with over six years of sports writing experience. From American football to basketball, to soccer, and to the UFC, he tries to find interesting stories throughout the world of sports.
When he is not watching games, he is likely enjoying some good music or catching up on some shows.
