U.S. Soccer Fans Excited for World Cup 2026: Survey Results and Insights
The majority of U.S. soccer fans are feeling positive about the upcoming World Cup being hosted in the United States, with over half expressing excitement. However, non-soccer fans are less enthusiastic about the tournament being hosted in the country, with only a small percentage showing increased interest due to the event. The World Cup hosting has mainly piqued the interest of existing soccer fans, with a significant number of Americans identifying as either big or casual fans of professional soccer indicating heightened interest in the tournament as a result of the U.S. being a host nation.
Among different age groups, younger adults aged 18 to 29 are the most excited or pleased about the U.S. hosting the World Cup this year, with many of them expressing increased interest in the tournament because of this factor. They are also more likely than older Americans to consider themselves soccer fans. Additionally, parents whose children play soccer are eagerly anticipating the World Cup, with a majority expressing pleasure or excitement and showing a heightened interest in the tournament due to the U.S. hosting it.
The survey conducted by CBS News/YouGov involved 2,023 U.S. adults interviewed between June 2-4, 2026, with the sample weighted to represent the national adult population based on gender, age, race, education, and 2024 presidential vote. The margin of error for the survey is ±2.8 points. Overall, the upcoming World Cup being hosted in the United States has generated positive sentiments among soccer fans and individuals connected to the sport, contributing to increased interest and excitement surrounding the tournament.