Diverse. Complicated. United. This is what it is to be a USMNT soccer fan

The Athletic is running a special series ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, speaking to fans of all 48 competing nations about their unique football culture. For the United States Men's National Team (USMNT), that culture is described as 'diverse, complicated, united,' reflecting a fragmented fanbase that rallies together every four years around the national team. The piece explores how American soccer support spans casual observers and dedicated fans across all 50 states, united by what one Southern California supporter calls 'a relentless optimism.'