World Cup trophy tour in U.S. draws crowds, but football's deep roots remain with immigrant communities

Outside the MetLife Stadium, set to host the World Cup final on July 19, a procession of onlookers gathered at the American Dream mall, one of the largest shopping centers in the United States. "It's to see the trophy," a local explained, noting its recent arrival and the photo opportunity.

Inside a vast hall adorned with brand names, a small display case housed the 36-centimeter trophy. This diminutive prize seemed lost amidst the mall's gigantism, a metaphor for soccer's standing in the land of American football. The mall itself boasts the world's largest wave pool, an indoor ski slope, and an amusement park, bearing no relation to the sport.

Beside the trophy stood Bastian Schweinsteiger, a FIFA Legend, smiling stiffly. The former German World Cup winner's presence, however, sparked only limited enthusiasm. The vast majority of people in line were of Latin American descent. Despite an increase in registered players in the U.S., football largely remains a passion imported by immigrants.

The article suggests that while the U.S. is hosting the World Cup, the sport's deep cultural integration is still a work in progress, with its most fervent supporters often coming from immigrant communities. The scene at the mall underscored the sport's growing presence but also its continued reliance on specific demographics for widespread engagement.