Not Laughing Now: How…

IRVINE, Calif. — While France and Argentina have certainly shown their prowess, it’s Ranch Dressing FC that has stolen the spotlight in this World Cup group stage, generating the most excitement and conversation.

Ranch dressing is everywhere—from memes to social media videos, in fans’ luggage, and even in the hands of numerous international visitors to the U.S. who are discovering its unique flavor combination for the first time.

Now hailed as “American Sauce” in some circles, ranch dressing has become a sensation worldwide, with USMNT midfielder Weston McKennie, the (unofficial) captain of Ranch Dressing FC, feeling entirely justified in his passion for it.

“I anticipated this,” McKennie shared in a recent ESPN interview. “I was ahead of the curve.”

This claim holds weight. McKennie faced widespread ridicule five years ago for his enthusiasm for ranch dressing. The turning point came during Amazon’s documentary featuring his club team, Juventus. In a casual lunch with legends Giorgio Chiellini and Gianluigi Buffon, he casually suggested that ranch dressing is a delightful topping for pizza.

Buffon laughed, while Chiellini was visibly disturbed. Yet, McKennie remained steadfast, insisting ranch is “amazing” and refusing to be deterred by the mockery that followed. He continuously championed ranch dressing.

Now, as soccer fans from around the globe flock to matches in the U.S., the tide has turned in McKennie’s favor. As he helps propel the U.S. to the top of their group, he’s savoring a personal victory that resonates with both him and his taste buds.

“I took a lot of heat for this,” McKennie noted. “Now they get it. It’s addictive.”

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Indeed. McKennie is acutely aware of how ranch dressing is grabbing attention during this World Cup. He noted how the travel industry is grappling with passengers trying to carry ranch dressing in their bags, often bumping into TSA’s restrictions on liquids over 3.4 ounces.

Having previously smuggled ranch dressing back to Italy in his checked luggage, McKennie has been following the TSA’s advisories closely and plans to ensure his Italian teammates are well-informed.

“I was thrilled to see the TSA’s report advising against packing ranch in your carry-on,” McKennie mentioned. “I’ll definitely pass that on to my teammates when I return.”

McKennie’s World Cup experience has been eventful thus far. He played a pivotal role in leading the U.S. to triumph over both Paraguay and Australia in their opening matches. He also confronted an unexpected challenge while out to lunch with Christian Pulisic and Alejandro Zendejas, when they found themselves stranded several miles from the team hotel due to a road closure.

With Pulisic nursing a calf injury, a long walk was not an option. McKennie orchestrated a ride through a local dealership using a golf cart, sparing Pulisic any added strain.

As for that meal they had before getting stuck? Pizza, which McKennie praised as “excellent.”

And most likely enjoyed with ranch dressing.

“It’s the best,” McKennie concluded. “I’m just glad everyone is realizing that now too.”