US World Cup host sees low public enthusiasm as former player backs Trump as 'soccer president

Analyst Hans Mensah observed that the build‑up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States is unusually muted, describing the atmosphere as “quite literally dead” and noting the lack of visible TV or radio coverage. He attributed the limited buzz to football’s secondary status in the US sports hierarchy, saying immigrant communities such as Mexican, Brazilian and African fans are likely to provide the stadium euphoria.

Former US international Alexi Lalas praised President Donald Trump on the Fox Ryen Russillo Show, calling him “the soccer president” and saying the administration’s soft‑power approach will benefit the tournament. Lalas downplayed infrastructure concerns and linked the White House’s support to broader political narratives, while also acknowledging ongoing visa and logistical issues surrounding the event.