The U.S. Men’s National Team’s preparation for the 2026 World Cup is in turmoil. Recent humiliations, including losses to Panama and Uruguay, resulted in the U.S. crashing out of the 2024 Copa America on home soil. These setbacks cast a shadow over the team’s prospects as it gears up to co-host the 2026 World Cup with Canada and Mexico.
The 2024 Copa America has also raised doubts about the U.S.’s readiness to host 78 of the 104 World Cup matches slated for the U.S. The chaos in Miami before the Colombia-Argentina final, where fans without tickets managed to enter the stadium, has intensified scrutiny of the U.S.’s capability as a World Cup host.
The World Cup Is Coming to America—and Heading for Disaster – Foreign Policy https://t.co/zlvlQAWfXd via @GoogleNews
— Leslie G. 🧐📣📚😸🍷🌷 (@kckitty) August 11, 2024
Comparing the U.S. experience to Germany’s hosting of the European Championship reveals stark contrasts. German cities like Dortmund and Leipzig were vibrant with energy, while U.S. stadiums often appeared empty or disorganized. European coaches have criticized the pitch and security conditions in the U.S., unlike their counterparts in Germany.
The problem isn’t with soccer culture but rather with deeper issues. The U.S. struggles with infrastructure, social problems, and a lack of efficient public transit. While Germany offers high-speed trains connecting cities, the U.S. lacks comparable systems. California’s high-speed rail project remains incomplete, forcing visitors to rely on flights or rentals, adding to the difficulty and expense of traveling between host cities.
Moreover, the high cost of attending games and inadequate public transportation were evident during Copa America, where parking fees and the lack of transit options were problematic. In contrast, European fans benefit from efficient public transit systems, making travel between matches more manageable.
Fan safety is another concern. The U.S. faces criticisms related to gun violence and security measures at major events. Unlike Europe, where fan violence is often contained, the U.S. must navigate heightened security and the risk of violence, impacting the overall experience.
Visa restrictions pose a significant hurdle for international fans. Unlike the Schengen Area in Europe, which allows easy travel across borders, the U.S. visa system is complex and restrictive. This could prevent many passionate fans from attending, particularly if the political climate remains contentious or if stringent immigration policies are enforced.
Migrant rights and extreme heat also pose challenges. The U.S. faces severe heatwaves that affect both workers and event-goers. The situation is exacerbated by inadequate local heat protections, making outdoor events potentially dangerous.
Key Points:
i. The U.S. Men’s National Team’s poor performance in the 2024 Copa America raises concerns about the team’s future for the 2026 World Cup.
ii. Issues such as chaos during Copa America games and criticism of infrastructure and security highlight potential problems for the U.S. as a World Cup host.
iii. Compared to Germany’s efficient transportation and vibrant atmosphere, the U.S. struggles with inadequate public transit and high costs for fans.
iv. Fan safety, visa restrictions, and extreme heat present additional challenges that could impact the World Cup experience in 2026.
v. The U.S. has an opportunity to overcome these obstacles and demonstrate its capability to host a successful World Cup, but significant improvements are needed.
Susan Guglielmo – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
