Key facts
- Less than 30% of American adults are interested in the upcoming World Cup.
- Over two-thirds of surveyed individuals stated they will not follow the tournament.
- Immigrants are more likely to follow the World Cup than U.S.-born citizens.
- Spain is the most predicted winner of the tournament.
- American football remains significantly more popular than soccer among U.S. adults.
A survey indicates that the upcoming FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada, has garnered limited interest among American adults, with less than 30% planning to follow the tournament. The poll, conducted in March by the Pew Research Center among 3,507 individuals, revealed that over two-thirds (66%) of respondents will not follow the event, and only 28% affirmed they would follow it, with actual interest standing at 14% for the competition.
Despite soccer's popularity among young people, the sport faces challenges in the U.S. market. While the Major League Soccer (MLS) has seen growth, particularly after the arrival of international stars, fan interest often leans towards prestigious European clubs or teams from their countries of origin, especially within immigrant communities. The survey highlighted a significant difference in interest levels, with 54% of immigrants expressing a desire to follow the World Cup, compared to only 23% of U.S.-born individuals. Among immigrant groups, Asians and Hispanics showed the highest interest, at 44% and 42% respectively.
Predictions for the tournament winner placed Spain at the forefront with 9% of the votes, followed by Argentina and Brazil at 8% each. France, the USA, Germany, and Mexico each garnered 7% of predictions. A 2023 study further underscored the sport's standing, with 53% of American adults identifying American football as the dominant sport, while soccer was chosen by only 3%. Views on the tournament varied widely by age, with Generation Z showing the most enthusiasm and Baby Boomers the least. High ticket prices and a general lack of awareness are also cited as factors contributing to dampened excitement in the United States.