2026 Men’s World Cup Opens in Southern California as US Faces 39 Days of Scrutiny
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Jun 12
2026 Men’s World Cup Opens in Southern California as US Faces 39 Days of Scrutiny
3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Jun 12
Summary
Southern California hosts Friday’s U.S.-Paraguay opener, bringing the men’s World Cup back to the United States for the first time since 1994.
39 days of tournament play now unfold against a backdrop of ICE enforcement, travel bans and visa denials that have complicated the run-up and raised fears about detentions for visitors.
Boyle Heights, where watch parties and street closures are planned, still carries memories of last year’s ICE-raid protests and the deployment of 700 Marines and thousands of National Guard troops.
3.6 million fans attended the 1994 U.S. World Cup, a record that showcased America’s immigrant-driven soccer culture; this year’s event is framed as a test of whether the country still reflects that openness.