"The next World Cup … is more than just a sporting event. It is a global celebration of unity and competition," stated Clement Lisi in a Planet Soccer article. Additionally, in a Brand Vision Insights article, they highlight, “Beyond economics, the World Cup’s cultural impact on North America could be significant. Hosting a global event brings diverse populations together, often creating opportunities for cross-cultural connections and mutual appreciation.” Clearly, FIFA’s decision to host the 2026 World Cup in North America is important, and one must recognize why it’s important. It may not only be for entertainment, but for connecting people across the globe.

As a freshman in high school, I specifically remember watching the 2022 Qatar World Cup during the winter. Personally, I thought it was a solid World Cup, and I enjoyed the many interesting games. I specifically remember when Saudi Arabia beat Argentina, which was a surprise for many since Messi was on Argentina’s team. Additionally, there was also a game where Japan beat Spain. All of these games were the hot topics during those weeks of school, especially during finals week when everyone was watching between the exam blocks. Everyone found this event was a way to have fun and relieve their stress from school during the final month of the semester. The World Cup final itself was a great way to end this experience as Argentina and France had an intense face-off.

Back then, I wasn’t much of a soccer fan, but I still enjoyed watching the World Cup. As a person who loved basketball, I found that soccer was more interesting than I thought it would be. Every time a player would cross the ball, pass it up, get a red card, or take a penalty shot, there would be so much suspense. As a viewer, I personally liked the excitement of the game, and looking back at the World Cup, I feel nostalgic and happy when I remember those moments. 

Four years later, the World Cup is coming to our side of the world from June 11th to July 19th in cities like Los Angeles and Miami. Even if you don’t watch soccer, you should be excited for a big world event like this happening in our country. Harrison Lasater, a senior, stated, "I'm not a soccer fan, and I literally had no idea the 2026 World Cup was in the US.” Obviously, he was unaware of this event, but did he care? He continues and explains the extent to which he cares and states, “It seems like a good idea because there's a big market for soccer in the US and plenty of stadiums.” He then talked about global tensions and added,”The World Cup is definitely important to bring people together. Since it's being hosted by Mexico and Canada as well, I think that should foster cooperation.” Although Lasater isn’t a soccer fan, he still believes it’s a vital event. Similarly, a Brand Vision Insights article talks about the event having a significant cultural impact; maybe it can truly be a remedy for the world in a time when global tensions are high, which shows its overall significance.

Another student at Rowland Hall, Alex Alfaro, who is a big soccer fan, is also excited about the World Cup. He states, “I feel like the World Cup taking place in the USA is awesome considering we live in it.” However, he then mentions, “I think the World Cup being in the USA is pretty cool, but not to the point where it should draw controversy.” In contrast to Lasater’s perspective, Alfaro takes a step back from his view and suggests that people should set aside political controversy about current wars and ethical issues, and simply enjoy it. Even if he says that people should come together, he doesn’t mean it in a political sense, to fix global issues. However, just like Lasater, he believes the World Cup is a good way for people to come together generally. Alfaro ends with talking about his strong support for Mexico to win the World Cup.

The 2026 World Cup isn’t only going to be fun, but with it happening at our doorstep, we’ll be able to easily connect with people around the world. Whether or not it helps heal general global tensions, everyone should care, as it demonstrates how people can unite over players kicking a ball into a net. In a country that’s a bit secluded from other countries in the world, and a place where the sport called football in most of the world is known as “soccer,” I think it’s time for Americans to recognize this event. If people around the world care so passionately about it, then why shouldn’t we? Specifically, for Rowland Hall students, when the time comes around, whether you watch a match in-person or on TV, enjoy the sport, and appreciate FIFA’s decision to host it in our continent while also welcoming the excited visitors.