2026 is set to be, arguably, the most important year ever for soccer in the United States. Pele coming to the country was a revolutionary moment, as was Lionel Messi‘s arrival in 2023. But hosting the FIFA World Cup is a whole other beast.
For the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw, FIFA president Gianni Infantino pulled out all of the North American stops. Omnipresent entertainer Kevin Hart was there, as was NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, MLB MVP Aaron Judge, NHL GOAT Wayne Gretzky, and NFL legend Tom Brady. It was clear from the get-go, that this is all huge for the U.S., Canada and Mexico.
Tom Brady takes pride in North America hosting the FIFA World Cup
Brady knows that very well, having been there for the draw in person, announcing national teams with aplomb. With the World Cup now less than four months away, Brady has hyped it up even more by speaking about how special this competition will be.
“Just to know there’s 48 countries now participating in the World Cup, in all of North America, is incredibly exciting. Because it just means more inclusion, more countries, more fans. A broader audience for these incredible games and these athletes to showcase what they’ve really tried to accomplish their whole life: Which is to reach the pinnacle of their sport. And the fact that they’re able to do that in America and showcase on the biggest stage is absolutely incredible.”
Brady knows all about reaching the pinnacle of his sport, having won the Super Bowl a record seven times. Despite soccer players having more avenues to trophies, through their clubs or national teams, the World Cup remains the most important competition for practically every player.
Being able to host these players, who have dreamt of competing in a World Cup since they were children, is a privilege that Brady and many Americans don’t take lightly.
Read the full article here
