The World’s Game Comes Stateside: A Preview of the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Published: Sunday, June 7, 2026

by Jeremy Calderon

The FIFA World Cup is rapidly approaching, and anticipation is building after an exciting tournament in Qatar four years ago. As the world’s most elite squads prepare for the sport’s most prestigious tournament, most of the attention is focused on who will come out as winners. However, questions remain regarding ticket prices, transportation and underlying political tensions.

Among the leading contenders is Spain, fresh off their win at Euro 2024. Built around technique and fluidity, Spain has reestablished itself as an elite side. With stars such as Lamine Yamal and Rodri, it’s hard to not see parallels between the Spanish side that dominated international football between 2008 and 2012, winning two Euros and a World Cup.

France also enters as a major contender. Runners up in 2022, the French benefit from a balanced squad that combines stars like Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele with rising talent such as Micheal Olise and Desire Doue. Their last tournament under long-time manager Didier Deschamps, France combines a well-oiled attack with disciplined tactics.

England is beginning a new chapter under manager Thomas Tuchel after its most successful period in decades. Despite reaching consecutive Euro finals and deep World Cup runs, England has yet to end its now 60-year trophy drought. Led by Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice, the Three Lions possess a well-rounded squad. The question is the same as it has been for two decades, whether England can finally convert its talent and win its first trophy since the 1966 World Cup.

Defending champions Argentina remain a complete and experienced side. Despite a scare around Lionel Messi’s participation, Argentina is returning many key pieces from the squad that won in Qatar. Questions remain regarding injuries to key pieces, but Argentina’s experience and the mere presence of Messi will make them a difficult side to break down on their way to a potential repeat.

While the game on the pitch will grab most of the spotlight, several off-field issues have already been shaping the tournament. Perhaps the main concern regards ticket prices. The use of dynamic pricing has led even the cheapest tickets to cost thousands, while in 2022 the cheapest tickets capped out at around $200. Beyond ticket prices, travelers must deal with a similar situation with flights, hotels and transportation across the host nations.

NJ Transit has faced criticism after announcing that trains between New York Penn Station and MetLife Stadium would cost $100 roundtrip. Critics believe that these prices put further strain on supporters in addition to match and accommodation prices. Since MetLife is set to host high stake matches such as the final, this has become yet another concern regarding accessibility and affordability for thousands of fans.

World events have also had a significant impact on the tournament. The Trump administration’s strict immigration and visa policies have led to many supporters having their visas rejected. A notable controversy is the visa situation with the Iranian national team. Due to the ongoing conflict, the Iranian team is not allowed to stay in the United States, instead moving their base camp to Tijuana, Mexico. Despite this, their matches are still set to be played in Los Angeles and Seattle. While the players themselves have been granted entry into the country, a number of staff and technical advisors have had their visas denied. This issue has called into question the World Cup’s goal of being an inclusive global event.

This upcoming FIFA World Cup promises to be an exciting and competitive tournament with elite powers battling for the sport’s greatest achievement. Off the field however, concerns regarding ticket prices, transportation and visas must be addressed to ensure a successful event for both supporters and the teams themselves. With more nations participating than

ever before with viewers around the world expected to watch, the 2026 World Cup looks to be a landmark moment of the decade.

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