Photo by Wagner Meier/Getty Images
How sport connects US to the world
Countdown to World Cup 2026
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As the United States prepares to host the FIFA Men’s World Cup in 2026 and the Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2028, the Great Game Lab explores the convergence of global sport, media, and geopolitics. We do so through storytelling, research, teaching, and informed conversations.
Set pieces
How sports connect us… what’s your take? Twenty-ish-minute chats with some of the more compelling protagonists in the great game.
Featured
How Did Los Angeles Become a World Cup City?
Los Angeles encompasses the world, making it the perfect lens for the story of American soccer. Shaped by immigrant communities, the women's game, and global finance, LA’s soccer landscape ranges from the historic 1999 Rose Bowl World Cup win to today's vibrant MLS, NWSL, and international fandoms. Partnering with Wanderland Studios and Matt O’Connor-Simpson, The Great Game Lab explores how Los Angeles truly became a World Cup city.
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Global Games, Local Impact: Sports Diplomacy in Los Angeles
As the inventor and exporter of the world’s game, how does Britain leverage its soft footballing power diplomatically? And what does it mean for Los Angeles to be the nexus of our growing transatlantic footballing ties?
Great Game Lab
Photo by Matthew Ashton - AMA/Getty Images