Cobi Jones on the 2026 FIFA World Cup: Expansion, Draw, and Impact

The 2026 FIFA World Cup: An Expanded Spectacle

• ⚽ The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be bigger than ever, expanding from 32 to 48 participating teams.
• 🌍 This expansion allows for a larger celebration of global football, bringing together diverse teams and cultures.

Cobi Jones' World Cup Experience

• 🇺🇸 Cobi Jones, a US Soccer Hall of Famer, reflects on playing in the 1994 World Cup hosted in the US.
• 💡 He highlights the 1994 event as a pivotal moment that helped grow the game of soccer within the United States and put players in the spotlight.

Expectations for the US in the Draw

• 🎯 While not naming specific opponents, Jones hopes for an easier route for the United States in the tournament.
• ✈️ Following the draw, he anticipates a surge in travel bookings as fans plan to follow their teams.

Hosting and Fan Base in 2026

• 📍 The US team is expected to be based in the Los Angeles area, with their opening match at Sofi Stadium on June 12th.
• 🤝 The 2026 World Cup will be co-hosted by three nations: the US, Canada, and Mexico.
• 🧠 The US now boasts a more knowledgeable and engaged fan base compared to 1994, eagerly anticipating the tournament.

The Magnitude of the World Cup

• 🌟 Jones compares the month-long tournament to having a "Super Bowl every single day for a month."
• 🎉 Beyond the 90 minutes of play, the event encompasses pre- and post-match celebrations, showcasing the cultures of all 48 participating nations.