What do teens in North America think about the World Cup?
Perspectives from young reporters in host cities
Since 2024, Youth Media Forward journalists have been reporting on the implications of the 2026 World Cup for their cities and beyond. Based in four of the host locations - Guadalajara, New York New Jersey, Los Angeles and Toronto - they have explored the multi-faceted dimensions of an event on this scale.
As the World Cup gets underway, here is a snapshot of their stories on the tournament so far.
The reporters have shared hopes for a moment when the spotlight will be on 48 national teams competing in their communities. They have expressed concerns about visas, immigration and who will be able to access the games, explored the impacts on local transit and called for acknowledgement of the workers - in hotels, restaurants, airports, stadiums and public places - who make events like this happen.
They have brought a human rights lens to a visit to the World Cup stadium in Guadalajara; reported on the momentum the World Cup can bring for the men’s and the women’s game in the USA; explored the links between football and peace in the past and today; and celebrated the energy of global fan communities in Toronto.
Throughout, the reporters have gained skills, confidence and connection with each other, learning from their diverse perspectives and contexts.
Keep following Youth Media Forward for views on the tournament and for stories that go beyond major events, exploring the impacts of sports in young people’s daily lives.
From “Una visita al Estadio Akron en Guadalajara”, photo essays
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Youth Media Forward is part of the Generation 2026 initiative, advancing youth agency and safety in the context of the World Cup 2026 and in day-to-day sports in Canada, Mexico and the United States.