‘There’s a World Cup happening?’ Are Americans excited about the tournament?

In Los Angeles, where the United States will host two of its three group matches, promotion of the World Cup has followed a comparable trajectory.

Banners line the streets outside Los Angeles International Airport, advertising ‘LA26’ and the tournament, while electronic billboards showcase members of the U.S. national team; a prominent downtown mural depicts Argentine legend Lionel Messi. Additionally, several convenience stores offer World Cup merchandise.

Nevertheless, casual observers, especially those uninterested in football, may easily miss the imminent start of the tournament.

A taxi driver transporting BBC World Service journalists expressed surprise, asking, ‘There’s a World Cup happening? Who’s playing?’

Organizers anticipate that excitement will intensify as the tournament progresses.

“I believe we have experienced a gradual build‑up that is now turning into a frothy frenzy,” says Larry Freedman, co‑chairman of the Los Angeles World Cup Host Committee.

“It has been a long time coming, and with many other sports and events in Los Angeles occupying people’s thoughts about tomorrow rather than events three years away,” he added.

“Now, as the tournament is about to begin, people are becoming increasingly excited. Our diverse community includes individuals from around the globe, each supporting their respective national teams.”

Fans are especially enthusiastic about being in a city where their nation will play, even if they are not die‑hard football supporters.

In Santa Monica, Isaiah and Husna, both residents of Sacramento County, looked forward to experiencing the tournament.

“I’m pretty excited,” Isaiah told BBC Sport.

“I’ve never actually watched the World Cup, but I plan to this year.”

“I think it will be exciting because it’s happening in Los Angeles now, and Los Angeles is the place to be. It will be a unique experience.”

Husna added, “Many people here are unfamiliar with the World Cup, but now that it’s in Los Angeles — a major, widely recognized city — they are more likely to notice and tune in.”

Both, however, admitted they were unaware of whom the United States would face in its opening match.

The younger generation of Americans interviewed by BBC Sport — those who did not witness the tournament when it was last held in the United States in 1994 — appear eager for the World Cup.

Fan Mahon said, “We have organized watch parties, so we’re very excited for it.”

“We have a few friends who aren’t really into soccer, but we’re encouraging them to join us as we support Team USA and take pride in our country.”

“I think it has surpassed baseball in popularity here, though I doubt it will reach the level of American football or basketball.”

“People will get into it.”

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