“Growing interest among Americans in the 2026 World Cup reveals surprising study.”

A new study reveals that Americans’ enthusiasm for the 2026 World Cup is growing rapidly, with an impressive 75% of respondents expressing a clear desire to follow the tournament. This excitement is particularly palpable among young adults, families, and urban audiences, signaling a significant shift in the sports culture of the United States.

The research, conducted by Performance Research and Full Circle Research between March 20 and 22, surveyed over 2,000 adults across the country. The results were unveiled during the Business of Soccer conference, a prestigious event featuring participation from SBJ, MLS, Concacaf, and U.S. Soccer, held at the iconic Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

The data is revealing: 26% of Americans plan to watch “many” games, a figure that rises to 37% among millennials, those aged 30 to 45. Respondents’ options ranged from watching “many” games to “only highlights or clips,” revealing a diversity of intentions that could impact how the tournament is experienced in the United States.

Among those expressing interest in the 2026 World Cup, 63% say they are somewhat likely to attend a live game. However, ticket prices emerge as a significant barrier, being a concern for 57% of respondents. Approximately 45% indicated they would be willing to pay less than $250 (€216) for a ticket, while three-quarters of participants do not intend to spend more than $500 (€431).

Jed Pearsall, president of Performance Research, commented on the results insightfully, suggesting that actual attendance at games may be more limited than initial interest indicates: “These results suggest that while interest in watching is broad, actual attendance may lean towards fans with higher incomes and greater involvement, with many others opting for experiences at home or in public viewing locations,” Pearsall stated.

Furthermore, safety during events does not appear to be a major concern, as only one-third of respondents cited this factor as a deterrent to attending a match in the stadium. With growing expectations and an increasingly diverse fan base, the 2026 World Cup promises to be a milestone in the history of soccer in the United States. As the event approaches, it remains to be seen how organizations will adapt to this new landscape and ensure that everyone can enjoy the live spectacle.

This article first appeared on [Apito Final](https://apitofinal.pt/).