Kevin Akoto, a waiter from Florida, left his job after Fox Sports selected him as a content reactor for the 2026 World Cup. He will receive 50,000 USD for this role. "I got the news of my selection on friday and told the restaurant I was quitting the very next day," Akoto said.

For six weeks during the tournament, Akoto and Austin Franklin, a content creator from Philadelphia, watched the matches from a custom-designed glass enclosure situated in Times Square, New York. Their primary responsibilities included watching football, recording their reactions, producing social media content, and interacting with fans.

Kevin Kotoko (right) and Austin Franklin watch the World Cup from inside a cube in Times Square, New York. *Photo: Fox*.

Franklin noted that thousands of people submitted application videos, but only two were chosen. "Sometimes, while engrossed in a match, I would realize dozens of people were standing around observing us," he recounted. According to Franklin, the most challenging aspect was maintaining a natural demeanor in front of the crowds.

Their unique presence in the busy area attracted many passersby, who stopped to chat and take photos. "The most common question people asked was where we went to the restroom," Franklin said.

Fans stand outside the cube in Times Square after Folarin Balogun scored the second goal for the US national team in the opening match. *Photo: Vincent Carchietta/IMAGN IMAGES/Reuters*.

Outside of their working hours, both Akoto and Franklin stayed at a nearby hotel. The work area also provided meals inspired by the countries participating in the tournament.

With 48 participating teams, the 2026 World Cup is longer than previous tournaments, with some days featuring up to four matches across various time zones. "I have to focus on staying healthy to keep up with the schedule," Akoto stated.

By Nhat Minh