Commentary: How the 2026 World Cup Reflects the Paradox of Modern Football
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Cristiano Ronaldo in tears after the 2026 FIFA World Cup round of 16 match between Portugal and Spain in Dallas, U.S., on July 6, 2026. Photo: VCG
Before the 2026 World Cup kicked off across the United States, Canada and Mexico, critics offered countless reasons for pessimism. The sport was aging, younger demographics were tuning out, the expanded format threatened to dilute match quality and the humid summer climate would stifle performance. Yet the moment the opening whistle blew, global attention was captivated. This is the enduring magnetism of the world’s most popular sport.
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