Soccer has overtaken baseball as America’s third favorite sport, according to a fresh 2026 survey from The Economist. This shift marks a historic moment, with 10 percent of Americans now picking soccer as their top choice, just ahead of baseball, while football and basketball hold the lead spots.
This change highlights soccer’s growing appeal in the United States, driven by young fans, diverse audiences, and major events like the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. As the tournament approaches, experts point to rising viewership and participation as key reasons for this surge.
Survey Reveals Soccer’s Narrow Lead
The Economist’s latest poll shows soccer claiming 10 percent of the vote as the favorite sport among Americans. Baseball follows closely with just under 10 percent, placing it fourth for the first time.
Football remains dominant at 30 percent, followed by basketball at 18 percent. Hockey, tennis, and other sports trail further behind.
This data comes from a broad national survey conducted in late 2025, reflecting current preferences amid excitement for the World Cup. Analysts note that soccer’s rise has been steady, building on trends from the past decade.
Younger demographics, especially those under 30, show the strongest support for soccer. Many credit streaming services and global stars for drawing in new fans.
Historical Trends Show Major Shifts
Looking back, soccer’s popularity has climbed dramatically over the years. In 2006, only 4 percent of Americans named it their favorite, per earlier Pew Research data.
By contrast, baseball held a stronger position then, with 13 percent of the vote. Football led at 34 percent, and basketball had 14 percent.
Gallup polls from the 1960s often crowned baseball as the top sport, sometimes beating football. But by 1972, football took over and has stayed ahead for over five decades.
Recent years have seen baseball’s appeal dip, while soccer gains ground. Social media discussions and search trends from 2021 to 2025 already hinted at this flip, with soccer outpacing baseball in online interest in most states.
Factors Boosting Soccer’s Popularity
Several elements fuel soccer’s ascent in the US. The 2026 World Cup, hosted across North America, sparks widespread buzz and is expected to draw record crowds.
Viewership has soared, with apps and streaming platforms making games accessible. Fans like young adults in cities such as Chicago plan full days around multiple matches.
Diverse communities, including Hispanic and immigrant groups, have long supported soccer. Now, broader audiences join in, driven by stars like Lionel Messi and rising Major League Soccer attendance.
Participation rates also climb. Youth sports trends for 2026 show more kids playing soccer, supported by smart facilities and organized leagues.
- Global events like the World Cup boost national interest.
- Affordable access through apps and TV expands the fan base.
- Celebrity players draw casual viewers into the sport.
Experts predict this momentum will continue, potentially challenging basketball’s spot in the future.
Challenges for Baseball and MLB
Baseball faces headwinds despite its deep roots in American culture. Participation peaked at nearly 17 million in 2024, but popularity polls now show it slipping.
Major League Baseball grapples with competition from faster-paced sports. Critics say longer games and regional appeal limit its growth.
Recent surveys indicate soccer’s edge in personal preference, though some argue baseball retains more secondary fans. For instance, many list it as a strong second or third choice.
The sport’s leaders push initiatives to attract younger crowds, like rule changes for quicker play. Yet, with soccer’s surge, MLB must adapt to stay relevant.
| Year | Football (%) | Basketball (%) | Baseball (%) | Soccer (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1960s (Gallup avg.) | 25 | 10 | 30 | <1 |
| 2006 (Pew) | 34 | 14 | 13 | 4 |
| 2026 (Economist) | 30 | 18 | <10 | 10 |
This table illustrates the evolving preferences, underscoring soccer’s rapid gains.
What This Means for US Sports Culture
Soccer’s rise signals a broader cultural shift toward global sports. With the 2026 World Cup on home soil, venues prepare for massive crowds on grass fields.
This event could solidify soccer’s place, much like the 1994 World Cup sparked initial growth. Women’s soccer also contributes, with strong showings in recent tournaments.
Baseball enthusiasts worry about losing ground, but the change reflects America’s diversifying tastes. Sports like soccer offer constant action, appealing to modern viewers.
Future Outlook and Predictions
Projections for 2026 suggest soccer viewership will climb further, aided by trends in digital media. Nielsen reports highlight young, diverse fans driving this wave.
Challenges remain, including FIFA controversies, but the sport’s core appeal endures. Baseball may rebound with innovations, yet soccer’s trajectory points upward.
Analysts foresee soccer potentially rivaling basketball by 2030 if trends hold. The World Cup will test this, with billions expected to tune in globally.
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