Donovan’s view is rooted in personal experience. He reportedly recalls watching Argentina face Romania at the Rose Bowl during the 1994 World Cup, a moment that changed his understanding of football.
Until then, his connection with the sport had largely been informal. Seeing elite players perform before a passionate crowd showed him the game’s global reach and emotional power. That experience helped persuade him to pursue football with greater ambition.
The hope is that 2026 can create similar turning points for children across North America.
For today’s young supporters, Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie could provide the most visible examples of what is possible. Both have helped establish American players as credible figures on the international stage, appearing regularly in major European competitions and World Cup campaigns.
Donovan reportedly sees those players as potential role models for children watching from the stands, at home or in community football programmes. A child who sees Pulisic or McKennie succeed may begin to imagine a similar path rather than viewing football as a sport played mainly elsewhere.
That visibility matters, but it is only the starting point. A lasting surge would require affordable pitches, strong coaching, accessible clubs and a clearer route from grassroots football to the professional game.
Hosting a World Cup cannot guarantee long-term growth. Interest can fade once the tournament ends unless schools, clubs and governing bodies turn excitement into regular participation.
That is why Donovan’s most important point is about the memory young fans carry forward. The next storyline will be whether the 2026 tournament creates not only unforgettable matches, but also a generation of players who first fell in love with football at home.