The 2026 FIFA World Cup marks a historic moment as the first tournament co-hosted by three nations: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Each country brings its own distinct football culture, enriching the tournament experience. So, how have these nations embraced the World Cup, and what distinguishes the event in each locale?
Mark Ogden has visited three cities across the host nations to uncover the atmosphere.
June 12: U.S. 4-1 Paraguay
LOS ANGELES — Sushi Hanashi Restaurant in Santa Monica has two screens: one showcasing the NBA Finals Game 5 between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs, while the other builds excitement for Scotland‘s World Cup Group C opener against Haiti.
With the Knicks poised to end a 53-year title drought, two patrons at the bar recall Knicks great Patrick Ewing before abruptly switching topics to the fervor among Scottish fans: “You heard about those Scots fans and the soccer? Crazy!”
While Scotland kicks off in Boston, fans in California are buzzing about their World Cup participation.
Abbot Kinney Boulevard, often dubbed the “coolest street in L.A.,” buzzed with excitement as crowds lined up for a Brazil–Morocco viewing party. One young woman exclaimed in excitement, “Did you see that?” as Qatar pulled off a last-minute equalizer against Switzerland.
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The excitement is palpable in L.A., with people stopping to watch the action, though the city hasn’t quite caught World Cup fever yet. However, there’s a yearning for it.
Just a day before, the USMNT triumphed in their opener with a powerful 4-1 win over Paraguay at SoFi Stadium. Christian Pulisic shone for the first half before leaving with a calf injury, while Folarin Balogun emerged as a rising star with two goals. Celebrity presence was strong, with figures like Tom Cruise and Hilary Duff among the 70,942 crowd, but high ticket prices — starting at $580 — meant that not every local could experience it in-person.
Edward, a waiter in Santa Monica, felt the pinch of ticket prices. A regular early riser for Premier League matches, he passionately follows football.
“As a Chelsea supporter, I’m shocked Cole Palmer and Phil Foden weren’t selected,” he remarked. “While I couldn’t attend the Games myself, especially with Mexico being my first team, I’ll definitely tune in for watch parties in our Mexican and Colombian communities.” He was pleasantly surprised by the influx of international fans, declaring, “I’ve never seen so many Austrians!”
Spectacular venue for USA v Paraguay in LA on Friday. Just hope fans can afford to buy the tickets…#worldcup pic.twitter.com/YrO6oPnqZD
— Mark Ogden (@MarkOgden_) June 11, 2026
On a flight from Charlotte to Los Angeles, Joe was eagerly watching Mexico’s opening match against South Africa. As a student visiting family, he lamented his lack of a ticket for the U.S. game: “Everyone on this flight is going to the game except me,” he said, though he observed many traveling fans sporting U.S. jerseys, especially the iconic ’94 design.
A father-son duo from North Carolina remarked, “It’s worth it for the opening ceremony!” Meanwhile, my Uber driver asked curiously, “What’s the deal with Iran?” His intent was ambiguous, but in L.A., that often adds to the charm of the conversation.
1:56
Gomez: Mexico should be favorites vs. England
GUADALAJARA, Mexico — Known for its passionate football culture, Guadalajara is home to Club Deportivo Guadalajara, famously known as Chivas, which is recognized for nurturing Mexican talent, including stars like Javier Hernandez and Carlos Vela.
The city’s World Cup contribution has also been noteworthy; the legendary Brazilian team of 1970 and the celebrated squad of 1986 graced its stadium. However, amidst the excitement of the World Cup, the sobering reality of missing persons in Guadalajara is being brought to light.
Over 16,000 individuals are reported missing in Jalisco state. Streets adorned with posters of the disappeared, including images in football contexts, spotlight a persistent human rights crisis, as families utilize World Cup visibility to amplify their struggle.
Edith Olivares of Amnesty International Mexico explained, “These posters are search tools that families employ in their quest for answers. They aim to leverage the World Cup’s attention to underscore the human rights crisis in Mexico and advocate for international pressure on the government.” Avenida Chapultepec graffiti is a thoroughfare of this urgency.
While cartel violence contributes systematically to these disappearances, there are countless tragic stories of random abductees, underscoring the urgent nature of this humanitarian crisis. Despite the sorrow, the World Cup has induced a spirited atmosphere in Guadalajara; after Mexico’s thrilling 1-0 victory over South Korea, the streets transformed into a festive scene with mariachi bands and jubilant fans.
“People go wild during the matches,” Abraham, a waiter, voiced. “Despite the city’s issues, football offers a welcome distraction, especially with the World Cup festivities.”
June 24: Switzerland 2-1 Canada
0:59
Hutchison: Canada have to have positive approach to Round of 16 match
VANCOUVER, British Columbia — Home is where the heart is, and in Vancouver, that rings especially true. Canada’s progress in the World Cup, including a dominant 6-0 victory over Qatar, was further highlighted by a narrow 2-1 loss to Switzerland at the same stadium just days later, which meant the team lost its local advantage.
A draw against Switzerland would have seen Canada continue its journey in Vancouver, but the defeat meant a tougher road ahead in Los Angeles against South Africa. Coach Jesse Marsch expressed his disappointment, saying, “When you secure one win, it’s crucial to build on that.”
Vancouver, the northernmost host city, was initially hesitant to host but underwent a transformation, embracing the World Cup with unexpected enthusiasm.
Long known for its passionate football fanbase, marked by MLS powerhouse, Vancouver Whitecaps, the city has evolved into a jubilant football celebration, welcoming fans from all backgrounds during the tournament.
Alanna Hagan of Destination Vancouver commented, “We knew Vancouver was multicultural, but the incredible diversity on display during the World Cup has been a pleasant surprise. The streets, filled with fans from British, Australian, Korean, Colombian, and Ivorian backgrounds, have created a vibrant atmosphere.” The community spirit, fueled by local support, is reminiscent of Canada’s last World Cup run, yet this time, the turnout has significantly exceeded expectations.
In the lively hours following the Switzerland match, Brazil’s yellow and green dominated Granville Street; despite a significant victory for Carlo Ancelotti’s team far away, Vancouver felt the excitement of a global tournament.
Canada, with just two venues available, mirrored a junior role alongside a U.S. and Mexico dynamic that also carries its own weight of expectations. While Mexico faces pressure to shed its “underachiever” label, the U.S. is keen to uphold high hopes after appointing former Tottenham and Chelsea coach, Mauricio Pochettino.
Canada has emerged as a competitive force under Marsch, with this World Cup reigniting interest in a sport traditionally overshadowed by ice hockey. “During my seven years in Canada, awareness for football was minimal; now people are approaching me, and it feels transformative.” Kevin Kilbane, a former professional and now analyst, noted the significance of this shift.
Even though Canada must move its matches south of the border, Vancouver continues to thrive with energy and community spirit. Exciting watch parties, like one atop Grouse Mountain, kept the celebration alive, where a massive Canadian flag was displayed as a tribute to the World Cup spirit shared across the city.
“The flag was designed for visibility from the mountain and city alike,” Adam Rootman from Grouse Mountain Resort mentioned, highlighting Vancouver’s dedication to showing support for their home team amid international visitors.