Reports have highlighted the cost of following Argentina or France through the tournament, with tickets, travel and accommodation all adding pressure for supporters. Eight fans have also detailed what they are paying to attend matches, underlining how access has become part of the World Cup conversation.
That financial backdrop could shape the atmosphere in the early rounds. The United States are expected to open against Paraguay, and strong local support would give the hosts an immediate boost. Yet staging the tournament does not guarantee sustained football interest; results will determine whether curiosity becomes a national surge.
France arrive among the leading contenders, with Kylian Mbappé positioned as the central figure in another title challenge. Spain bring a different proposition: a technically strong side seeking to turn widespread respect into silverware.
Argentina and Portugal carry the tournament’s strongest emotional storyline. The competition could be the final World Cup for Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, and a knockout meeting would combine rare star power with a powerful sense of closure.
Morocco remain a compelling threat after their recent rise, with Achraf Hakimi the headline presence in a squad capable of troubling deeper, more decorated teams. Norway offer a different attraction through Erling Haaland, whose individual profile can dominate attention even if his side are not widely expected to win.
Brazil, now led by Carlo Ancelotti, carry the usual demand for attacking football, while England again face the tension between talent and the absence of a senior international trophy.
The first group matches will reveal whether ticket-market anxiety gives way to football fever. The opening performances of the United States, France and Argentina should set the tournament’s mood-and establish whether the established powers or ambitious outsiders control the next chapter.