Soccer Fans Question U.S. Readiness To Host 2026 World Cup

Victor Dumois, a lifelong soccer fan, expressed his apprehension about the United States co-hosting the 2026 World Cup after attending a recent Club World Cup match in Miami.

“I think after the Copa America, a weird phenomenon has occurred here,” said Dumois, who is from Spain. “There’s people that don’t like the World Cup being in the United States.”

Following the security nightmare at the Copa America championship game in Miami last year, concerns about the United States’ preparedness to host major soccer events have been raised. Fast-forward to this summer’s Club World Cup, where security measures have been tightened, leading to mixed reactions from fans.

The Club World Cup is currently underway in the United States, serving as a prelude to the 2026 World Cup. However, attendance at the club tournament has been lackluster, with empty seats a common sight at various venues.

Various factors, including the tournament’s popularity compared to the World Cup, costs, and concerns over immigration raids, have contributed to the low turnout. Additionally, extreme heat during matches has posed challenges for players and fans alike.

As the Club World Cup progresses, fans and spectators have offered differing opinions on the readiness of American stadiums and host cities for the upcoming World Cup. While some believe the U.S. is not prepared for the event due to the influx of visitors, others have praised the organization and security measures in place.

Overall, the Club World Cup is seen as an opportunity for the U.S. to address any issues and improve its hosting capabilities before the 2026 World Cup. Despite challenges, many remain optimistic about the country’s ability to put on a successful event next summer.

Freelancers Andres Jaime-Mendez and Max Feliu Merce contributed to this report.