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The 2026 FIFA World Cup is weeks away from kickoff. As South Florida prepares to host seven matches, fan culture from various countries will transform how the city celebrates the largest tournament in history.
The beautiful game is more than a sport. Fans from countries like England, Argentina, Brazil, and the United States will bring their own traditions and uniqueness in one space. Through jerseys, chants, aromas, and passion, fan culture shows that the soccer tournament is not just about the game.
“The World Cup is such a moment, especially at this time, that unites people and unites the cultures, languages, and traditions,” said Fernando Fiore, a former sportscaster for Univision who has covered several World Cup matches. “Everyone wants to share and be proud of their countries.”
Tony Cherchi, an analyst for Major League Soccer (MLS), believes the events of the 2024 Copa America served as a prelude for what’s to come.
“The Argentine fans really make their presence felt wherever they travel. The Mexican fans make themselves heard wherever they go with songs and chants, and the Colombian fans do the same,” said Cherchi. “I think that this is going to be an audibly diverse World Cup.”
Through fan culture inside and outside the stadium, soccer becomes a language that needs no translation.
