From Dreams to Reality: U.S. Soccer's Bold Legacy Plan

The 2026 World Cup aims to reshape U.S. Soccer's legacy through ambitious projects focused on youth engagement, fundraising, and expanding the sport's footprint nationwide. The federation prioritizes community involvement and equity, with notable investments in women's soccer, seeking to capitalize on a financial uptick and heightened enthusiasm.

U.S. Soccer is gearing up for the 2026 World Cup, vying to leave a lasting legacy through initiatives designed to heighten youth engagement and broaden the sport's reach. This time, the tournament spans three nations—USA, Mexico, and Canada—marking a shift from the financially surplusing 1994 edition managed by a local committee.

The federation's mission is to promote soccer at grassroots levels via the Soccer Forward program, advocating inclusive access across schools and communities. The philanthropic endeavor, bolstered by a $25 million donation, emphasizes elevating women's soccer while simultaneously supporting health and community-driven activities.

Under the stewardship of CEO JT Batson and COO Dan Helfrich, the strategy endeavors to reframe U.S. Soccer as pivotal in fostering the sport's growth nationwide. With the Behind the Dream campaign aiming to amass $250 million in funding, the federation is well-positioned financially, yet committed to prioritizing long-term impacts beyond the World Cup's duration.

(With inputs from agencies.)