By:  Lily Panknin, Senior at Blue Valley North High School 

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be the biggest ever sporting event hosted in United States history! The impact of the World Cup will be bigger and longer lasting than just this summer or year. With potential to reshape American soccer overall by increasing interest, investment, and cultural connection to the sport, for the many years that come after.

The biggest and fastest effect of hosting the World Cup will be increased interest and
participation in soccer. Highlighting the youth, when fans, and even non soccer fans are exposed to the high-skill level, high-intensity, passionate competition, in their own country, people's curiosity grows. Youth leagues, school programs, and rec and competitive leagues are expecting more participation after the World Cup, as younger people are inspired by the best players from
around the world.

Additionally, the World Cup is the biggest globally advertised campaign in the world!
International brands, sponsors, media coverage, and news will be all over American markets and advertisements, bringing even more exposure to the World Cup and soccer overall. The constant visibility, promotion, and ads of the sport will help strengthen the presence of soccer in American Culture.

Lastly, another one of the biggest impacts will be sponsorships and overall investment in soccer. New and improved stadiums, practice fields, and training facilities will help keep the growth of soccer going after the World Cup ends. As Kansas City and the US as a whole prepare for the World Cup this year, this isn't just an event, but a huge opportunity for so many different things. Opportunity for American soccer to grow before, and after the World Cup, inspiring players and non-players of all ages, bringing soccer culture to America, and so many more long lasting
effects!