Every four years, the FIFA World Cup captivates billions—uniting nations in sport while exposing the political and financial forces that power global soccer. In Summer 2026, the tournament returns to North America for the first time in more than three decades, with matches across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The final rounds will unfold on US soil, including at Levi’s Stadium, just down the road from Stanford.

This course examines the World Cup as both a cultural spectacle and a billion-dollar enterprise. We’ll trace its origins, revisit iconic tournaments and controversies, and analyze how FIFA selects host nations and negotiates with governments. Guest speakers from inside the sport will illuminate the inner workings of player development, broadcast strategy, and global branding. Using the 2026 tournament as a case study, we’ll consider how the World Cup functions as a stage for globalization, diplomacy, and commerce—and why its influence extends far beyond the pitch.

The course will feature conversations with leading figures who have shaped the landscape of American and international soccer—from players and coaches to executives and organizers of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.