THE
ROYAL
ROAD

Soccer is no longer on the outside looking in. What was once considered a fringe sport in the U.S. has stepped fully into the spotlight, powered by a perfect storm of generational change, multicultural momentum, and global influence. From packed MLS stadiums to record-breaking World Cup viewership, and from lifestyle collabs to creator-driven fandom, soccer has become the new heartbeat of sports culture. This report explores how the game is not just rising; it’s redefining what it means to be mainstream in America.

WHAT THIS REPORT INCLUDES

Dive into the global momentum of the sport, leading up to the 2026 World Cup in Los Angeles, a milestone moment set to reshape the future of the beautiful game.

  • From humble beginnings in 1930 to becoming the most-watched sporting event, the World Cup has evolved into a cultural and commercial force, uniting nations through fierce competition and global storytelling.

  • With the 2026 tournament on home soil, the U.S. stands at a tipping point. Once on the sidelines of global soccer, it’s now positioned to redefine its sports identity and win over a new generation of fans.

  • More than a game, the World Cup drives trends, fuels fashion, inspires music, and sparks movements, haping mainstream culture across borders.

  • The World Cup is a billion-dollar arena where brands, media, and tech converge. From sponsorships to immersive experiences, it’s a marketing goldmine for bold companies.

  • To thrive in 2026, brands must go beyond the pitch. Authentic stories, culturally aware campaigns, and tech-forward strategies will be key to lasting impact in a soccer-first world.

1

UNDERSTAND THE LEGACY

Level up your history of the World Cup game while understanding why there isn’t a better moment for America to become part of the Soccer legacy and history.

2

SPEAK THE LANGUAGE

Become fluent on soccer culture and how it is shaping the way in which fandom is being created in America. Understand soccer nuances, territories and cultural influence.

3

RELEVANTLY ACTIVATE

Learn how the World Cup is a great scenario for business success. Activate relevantly and hack the event for maximum performance metrics based on Cultural intelligence®.

4

SEE AND SEIZE
THE OPPORTUNITY

Become aware of the World Cup success in numbers and the projected record-breaking scenarios that are expected during the 2026 event in the U.S.

5

A COMMERCIAL BEHEMOTH

Nothing rivals the World Cup. Unlike local events like the Super Bowl, its global reach and revenue are unmatched: billions tune in, and economies soar. From ad revenue to GDP, every metric spikes during a World Cup year.

6

AMERICA’S SOCCER MOMENT

Now is the time to shape soccer’s future in the U.S. The audience is still defining its identity. Act early, build relevance, and be part of the story before someone else writes it

GET AHEAD OF CULTURE

Excited to see it in action?

Book your personalized demo today and discover how it can work for you!