Can soccer keep growing in popularity in the USA?

Soccer has taken the United States by storm, and it’s not just a passing trend. With the rise in popularity of the sport, Americans are embracing the beautiful game like never before.

From increased viewership and attendance to big names investing in the MLS, soccer is quickly becoming a fan favorite. The demographic shift is also evident, with younger and more diverse soccer fans compared to other sports. 

Safety is another factor contributing to the sport’s popularity, with parents feeling more comfortable with their kid’s playing soccer compared to football. And with America set to host the upcoming World Cup in 2026, the excitement for soccer shows no signs of slowing down.

Rise in Popularity

Soccer, or football as the rest of the world calls it, is quickly gaining popularity in the United States. People are starting to care about a sport that they once dismissed as “boring” or “un-American.” 

So, what’s causing this sudden change of heart? First, there has been a significant increase in viewership and attendance at soccer matches. Casual spectators are also joining the party, curious to see what all the fuss is about. One major factor contributing to the rise in popularity is the involvement of big names like David Beckham. 

Beckham’s influence and participation in Major League Soccer (MLS) has brought a lot of attention to the sport. And let’s not forget about the European stars who have hopped across the pond to join MLS. Wayne Rooney, Gareth Bale, Zlatan Ibrahimovic – these guys are making soccer in America a lot more exciting.

And it’s not just the players who are benefiting from this newfound popularity. The growing market for soccer players is expanding, creating more opportunities for young talent. American players are making a name for themselves abroad, with stars like Christian Pulisic signing contracts with top European clubs at a young age.

It’s like the American Dream, but for soccer. So, next time someone tells you that soccer is a “boring” sport, remind them of the rise in popularity, the increase in viewership, and the success of American players abroad. 

Demographic Shift

Soccer in the United States is experiencing a major demographic shift, with younger and more diverse fans flocking to the sport. Compared to other sports like basketball, football, and baseball, soccer has a significantly larger fan base of people under the age of 45. 

This indicates that the sport is resonating with the younger generation and capturing their interest like never before. Not only are soccer fans younger, but they are also more culturally diverse. 

One team that has captured the hearts of many fans is the Mexican National Team, also known as “El Tri”. A 2020 study by Equation Research identified a staggering 60 million fans of the Mexican National Team in the US, making it the most popular national team in the country.

The popularity of Liga MX, Mexico’s top domestic league, is also on the rise in the US, with its viewership almost doubling that of MLS matches during the 2021 season. The rivalry and relationship between MLS and Liga MX have further expanded this season with the introduction of the interleague League Cup, generating even more excitement among soccer fans. 

These demographic shifts demonstrate the growing influence and appeal of soccer in the United States. The sport is capturing the attention of younger and more diverse fans, making it an ideal opportunity for brands, investors, and organizations to tap into this emerging market. diverse fan base, it’s clear that soccer’s popularity in the US is poised to continue its upward trajectory. 

Safety as a Factor

Soccer, also known as football, outside of the United States, is quickly gaining popularity in the country. One of the reasons for its rising popularity is its safety. Surprisingly, when polled, 86% of parents said they were comfortable with their kids playing soccer, whereas the number dropped to a mere 51% when it comes to football.

Who wouldn’t want their child to kick a ball and run around instead of being subjected to head and full-body injuries every time they step on the field? Football (the American version) has just over a 200,000-person advantage over soccer in terms of high school participation.

But this gap has significantly closed over the years. In the 1980s, there was a whopping 700,000-person gap, which closed to 400,000 in the mid-2000s. So, it’s safe to say that soccer is nipping at football’s heels. Soccer has managed to provide a safer alternative for kids to stay active and participate in sports. And with the declining gap in high school participation, it’s evident that more and more young athletes are choosing soccer over football. 

Upcoming World Cup

Hosting the upcoming World Cup in 2026 presents a golden opportunity for the United States to capitalize on the growing popularity of soccer. The World Cup will welcome renowned major players from European leagues and soccer clubs like Manchester City, Chelsea, Real Madrid and their partners along with other giants from around the world to the United States.

As the sport gains more fans and viewers, hosting this global event will not only draw soccer enthusiasts from all over the world but will also attract casual viewers who are curious to experience the excitement firsthand. 

Imagine stadiums filled with cheering fans, an electrifying atmosphere, and the economic boost that comes with such a prestigious tournament. By hosting the World Cup, the USA can further solidify its position as a rising soccer nation and cement its place in the hearts of Americans.

For The End

Soccer has ignited a fervor in the United States that’s far from fleeting. This once-dismissed sport has swelled in its favor, captivating Americans in ways previously unimagined. From heightened attendance and viewership to influential figures investing in the MLS, soccer’s ascendancy is palpable. Notably, the sport’s appeal spans a diverse range of younger fans, setting it apart from traditional alternatives. 

A key driver of its popularity is safety, parents embrace soccer’s lower injury risk compared to football. Anticipation surges as the USA gears up to host the 2026 World Cup, a pivotal juncture to capitalize on soccer’s surging momentum. 

The shift signifies an enduring transformation soccer’s reputation evolves, and the nation unites to embrace the global spectacle, securing its place as a soccer stronghold.