The first week of the 2026 World Cup in the United States has offered a whirlwind of contrasts, from the fervor of fans in some cities to the indifference in others, according to a collection of Guardian writers on the ground.
Mixed Reactions Across the Country
Ed Aarons noted the stark difference between the bedlam in New York after the Knicks won the NBA Finals and the sleepy arrival in Kansas City. He praised the warmth of locals in New York, Kansas City, and Dallas, but criticized FIFA's high prices, including $5 for a bottle of water in the media centre. The football has been thrilling, with DR Congo's draw against Portugal and England's win over Croatia among the highlights.
Alexander Abnos observed that the US is slowly embracing football, with the sport now discussed at bars, delis, and school pickups. However, he noted awkward moments when sports talk shows lack expertise on international football. "It's beautiful and exactly what so many of us here in the States have been fighting for," he said.
Texas: A State of Extremes
Nick Ames described Texas as a place where the World Cup means everything and nothing. He saw Mexico, Brazil, and Colombia fans pack bars in Houston, and a sea of "Ronaldo 7" shirts in Dallas. Yet, he also attended a Republican party convention of 5,000 people where the tournament went unnoticed, and spoke to Uber drivers unaware of soccer. "This country is big enough to host a vibrant World Cup; it is simultaneously capable of hosting one that passes entirely unnoticed," he wrote.
Stadiums and Sights
Ben Fisher was impressed by the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, describing it as a "spaceship-like arena" with a 1-million-square-foot canopy. He noted that the US knows how to build best-in-class stadiums, despite other logistical missteps.
David Hytner marveled at the scale of the US, especially the freeways and the mega screen at the Dallas stadium. He called it "an immersive cinematic experience." The craziest moment for him was a tornado warning in Kansas City, accompanied by a high-pitched tone from street speakers for about an hour.
Donald Trump's Absence
Matt Hughes reported that Donald Trump did not attend the US's opening 4-1 win over Paraguay, a relief for FIFA. Trump was booed at the NBA Finals in New York, which may have dissuaded him. He is expected to attend the final in New Jersey to hand over the trophy.
Food, Fans, and Football Quality
Sid Lowe enjoyed free ice-cream and M&Ms in the press area at Atlanta's stadium. He dismissed complaints from South Africa's manager Hugo Broos that it wasn't a football stadium, calling it "pretty brilliant" with a walkable downtown location.
Paul MacInnes highlighted the strikers, including Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyökeres, Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, Lionel Messi, and Harry Kane. "After a run of tournaments where the focus was on creative forwards, the big goalgetters are turning up here," he said.
Ewan Murray argued that the standard of international football has never been higher, citing Cape Verde as an example of a well-coached minnow. "No game is a gimme," he wrote.
Local Support and Expanded Format
Osasu Obayiuwana was surprised that Ecuador had over 60,000 supporters at Philadelphia Stadium for their 1-0 defeat to Côte d'Ivoire. "It was as if they were playing at home," he said.
Jack Snape criticized the expanded format for removing jeopardy from group games, as third place in 8 of 12 groups advances. He questioned whether the reduction in dead rubbers is worth the uncertainty.
Jacob Steinberg noted the mid-west charm of Kansas City but struggled with extreme weather, including heat, humidity, and tornado warnings. He observed mixed interest in football, with some Americans watching baseball instead, but also met a Chelsea fan who knew his football.
Jonathan Wilson praised the open football but described off-pitch chaos, including poor wifi and media facilities in Mexico. "Food is great, coffee mediocre. Jet lag is a right bastard," he said.
