The World Cup 2026 has brought more than just soccer excitement to the United States. It’s sparking a surprising shift in America’s transit culture challenging the nation’s long-standing car-centric lifestyle. While the US has historically lagged behind in public transportation infrastructure, this global event is proving to be a catalyst for change.
America’s love affair with cars is well-documented. The average American spends about half a month each year behind the wheel, contributing to a higher rate of car accidents compared to Europe. Despite having more cars than people, the US lags in public transit options. This car-centric culture is epitomized by the tailgate a pre-game tradition involving grilling and socializing in stadium parking lots.
World Cup challenges and transit triumphs
Initially, there were doubts about whether US cities could effectively manage the influx of World Cup fans using public transportation. New Jersey faced criticism for proposing expensive train tickets to MetLife Stadium, while Kansas City’s new pop-up buses encountered traffic jams during the first game. However, as the tournament progressed, these concerns proved largely unfounded.
Cities across the country have managed to absorb the surge in ridership with remarkable ease. Los Angeles, known for its notorious traffic, has seen a major cultural shift around public transit. Eli Lipmen, executive director of MoveLA, expressed his pleasant surprise at the city’s transit system performance during the World Cup. He noted that Angelenos are spending less time in their cars, leading to quieter streets and a stronger sense of community.
Infrastructure investments and rapid developments
In the lead-up to the World Cup and the 2028 Olympics, Los Angeles unveiled three new subway stations, its first in over two decades. Other cities also made significant strides. Seattle’s Sound Transit recorded a record-breaking 309,000 riders during a match, thanks to a newly completed light rail extension. Atlanta overhauled its bus network, Miami utilized a new rapid transit line, and Kansas City expanded its tram service.
These developments demonstrate that US cities can build new buses, trams, and trains much faster than previously thought. The challenge now is maintaining this momentum beyond the World Cup and Olympics. For instance, Kansas City’s transit authority plans to slash a quarter of its regular bus routes just hours after the final World Cup match, raising concerns about long-term commitment.
Rebranding and cultural shifts
Los Angeles stands out as an exception, not just because of its upcoming Olympics host role. The city has invested heavily in its transit system, improving safety and rebranding its image. A notable example is the Metro’s cheeky “Ride the D” merchandise, which sold out multiple times, helping to reduce the stigma associated with taking the train.
Jennifer Vides, Metro Los Angeles’s chief customer experience officer, emphasized that Los Angeles is a transit city. “People want to try to say that it’s not. Obviously, we have a lot more expansion to do and we’re working on it. But people really want transit,” she said. This shift in perception is crucial for normalizing public transit and encouraging its everyday use.
The World Cup 2026 has shown that Americans can embrace new cultural phenomena, like soccer. The hope is that this enthusiasm extends to public transportation, fostering a lasting change in how Americans move. With the LA28 Olympics on the horizon, Los Angeles is edging closer to realizing its car-free summer dream.
