As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, excitement is growing among soccer fans around the world, including BHS students whose family roots connect them to nations competing on the world’s biggest stage.
The tournament, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, is already creating conversations about culture, identity and national pride among young fans.
The 2026 tournament will be the first World Cup hosted by three countries and the first to feature 48 teams instead of 32, according to FIFA.
The expanded tournament is expected to attract millions of fans from around the world and become one of the largest sporting events in history. Cities across North America are preparing for massive crowds, international media coverage and celebrations surrounding the monthlong competition.
At school, students have already begun discussing predictions for the tournament months before the opening match. During lunch periods, study halls and after-school activities, conversations about soccer have become more common as students debate which nations have the best chance to win the championship.
For some students, the World Cup is more than just soccer.
Jordan Uria, whose parents were born in South Africa, said supporting the South African national team helps him stay connected to his family’s heritage and traditions.
“I’ve always supported South Africa because my parents were born there, so watching them qualify for the World Cup means a lot to my family,” Uria said. “The energy and passion South African fans bring is unbelievable, and I think they can surprise people at this tournament.”
Uria said his family often watches international matches together and follows South African soccer closely whenever major tournaments take place. He added that seeing fans from different countries celebrate together is one of his favorite parts of the World Cup.
Daniel Park, whose family is from South Korea, said the tournament allows him to celebrate both soccer and his cultural background.
“Even though I live in the United States, South Korea has always felt like home because of my family,” Park said. “I’ve watched Korean soccer since I was little, and seeing them on the world stage again is exciting. Their speed and teamwork make them really dangerous.”
Park said South Korea’s recent international success has made him more confident heading into the tournament. He also said the World Cup creates a sense of unity among Korean fans around the world.
The World Cup also brings excitement to students who were born outside the United States. David Kyatt, who was born in Brazil, said soccer has always been an important part of his life.
“Brazilian soccer is part of who I am,” Kyatt said. “Growing up, soccer was everywhere, in the streets, on TV, with family. Every World Cup feels personal to me, and I truly believe Brazil has the talent to win it all this year.”
Kyatt said Brazil’s history and tradition in soccer make every tournament meaningful for Brazilian fans. He added that players such as Neymar inspired many younger fans to follow the sport more closely.
The 2026 World Cup final is scheduled to take place July 19, 2026, with preliminary matches hosted across major cities in North America.
The tournament is expected to increase international tourism, television viewership and youth participation in soccer worldwide.
Students said the tournament’s location in North America makes this World Cup feel even more important because games will be played closer to home and easier to watch live. Many fans are already hoping to attend matches if tickets become available.
The World Cup’s global impact continues to unite fans from different cultures and backgrounds, proving that soccer remains one of the world’s most powerful international sports.
