48 countries from all over the world are convening this summer for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, bringing a host of new cultures, languages and experiences to North America for soccer’s grandest showcase.
For many North American sports fans, though, the biggest culture shock may come from the name of the sport itself. Known as “soccer” in co-hosting U.S. and Canada, Mexico calls the footed sport “fútbol,” which is more in line with other countries around the world.
