The 2026 World Cup is more than just a football festival; it is an opportunity for international visitors to explore the host nation. Many European visitors report being "overwhelmed" by the sheer scale of everything, from the majestic nature of the American West to "super-sized" gas stations and towering skyscrapers.
World Cup visitors share their thoughts on the United States. Video: CBS
"We had heard a lot about aloofness, but in reality, Americans are much warmer than we imagined", a visitor said. Many also expressed surprise at the affluent lifestyle of Americans, which many locals consider "self-evident" in their daily lives.
US media is also closely following fan sentiment. Journalist Constance Grady of Vox commented: "The 2026 World Cup is an opportunity for the world to express its affection for the United States, even when the rest of the world has countless reasons not to like us."
According to international tourism experts, the influx of fans is boosting the US economy and national brand image. This is also an opportunity for host cities to promote their local cultural identity to international visitors.
Anh Minh (According to CBS, USA today)
