Has the World Cup arrived yet? In the US, it depends on who you ask
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, fans and players in the United States report that the tournament does not yet feel fully real. Despite extensive preparations at venues like MetLife Stadium, the excitement has yet to permeate the public consciousness.
Why it matters
The article highlights the psychological and cultural disconnect that can occur in host nations during the lead-up to major global sporting events.
Workers are making their final preparations for MetLife Stadium and others to host World Cup games. Photograph: John Angelillo/UPI/Shutterstock View image in fullscreen Workers are making their final preparations for MetLife Stadium and others to host World Cup games. Photograph: John Angelillo/UPI/Shutterstock World Cup 2026 Has the World Cup arrived yet? In the US, it depends on who you ask Just days away from the opener, the tournament has yet to feel fully real for fans and even some players
The article provides a neutral, observational account of public sentiment regarding a sporting event without political or ideological framing.
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