With less than a year until kickoff, anticipation is growing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, one of the largest sporting events in the world and the first to be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. This historic tournament will feature an expanded field of 48 teams, bringing more countries, cultures, and fans together than ever before. From packed stadiums to watch parties in local communities, the World Cup’s global energy is expected to reach far beyond the host cities, sparking excitement even here on our school campus as students look ahead to a summer filled with unforgettable matches and moments.
Julio Ruvalcaba, a sophomore at Ridgeview High School, shares his excitement for the upcoming matches. He expresses, “With so many teams and matches, the excitement for the tournament is going to reach more people, and raise anticipation. It’s awesome to share the same passion across so many different people and cultures.” Historically, the FIFA World Cup has been held in one country, with only a few exceptions. However, the 2026 tournament features a record-breaking three host nations. Ruvalcaba adds, “…With the major changes to this year’s tournament, I think pressures are high for all teams.”
Sophomore Jayden Landry is one of the captains of Ridgeview’s Frosh/Soph Boys soccer team. Being able to play soccer during high school is a major highlight of his year. Landry expresses, “Playing soccer is not only fun because of the game itself, …but most importantly the long-lasting friendships I’ve made throughout the season.” For this year’s FIFA World Cup, the roster size is 26 players, an increase from the traditional 23 that had been previously used. “Chemistry is important for every team to have during this upcoming World Cup. With more teams and competition, … I feel that each player needs to be on the same page.”
Juan Cubillo is the coach for Ridgeview’s Junior Varsity Boys soccer team, alongside his position as a Spanish teacher. From a coaching standpoint, Cubillo acknowledged, “With so many more countries playing, there are more opportunities to get the title…but, in tournaments like that, I mean, you have injuries left and right. Especially because it’s longer. People are playing longer, you know?” During the 2022 FIFA World Cup, team medical staff reported 82 injuries among players. Cubillo recognizes that the extended format and expansion of the tournament, it can put players at risk of burnout and injury. Cubillo gives advice to those who are interested in playing professionally, “Don’t give up, keep training, keep practicing on your own, do solo trainings. and just keep the heart up.”
