From 1994 to 2026: How the World Cup That Changed America’s Sports DNA Could Finally Break the Habit of Football and Baseball
In 1994, the World Cup arrived in the US as a curiosity, drawing record crowds and planting the seeds for soccer’s growth. Now, as the 2026 World Cup approaches, the question remains: can this tournament finally break the deep-rooted habits of football and baseball fans? Despite surges in viewership and youth participation, the dominance of the NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL persists. This article explores the skepticism and structural changes that could redefine America’s sports landscape.