Roger Bennett

Roger Bennett, co-founder of Men in Blazers and author of We Are the World Cup, explores how the 2026 tournament will sweep America. He predicts cities turning into temporary versions of visiting nations. He talks fan zones, ticket dynamics, politics and security, rising underdogs, and which U.S. towns will feel the biggest cultural impact.

Roger Bennett, founder of the Men in Blazers Media Network, dives into the upcoming 2026 World Cup in North America. He discusses the emotional dynamics of soccer fandom and the significant role of sports media in shaping public perception. Bennett highlights the intense Liverpool-Everton rivalry, the importance of fan loyalty, and the historical context of soccer in the U.S. He reflects on the transformative impact of the 1994 World Cup and the growing American soccer culture, igniting excitement and anticipation for the future.

Tom Bogert, a staff writer at The Athletic specializing in Major League Soccer, teams up with Roger Bennett, founder of Men in Blazers, to discuss the exciting arrival of Lionel Messi in the U.S. They dive into Messi's transformative impact on Inter-Miami and the league at large, boosting ticket sales and fan engagement. The conversation also touches on Messi's move from Barcelona to Miami, the cultural significance of soccer in America, and the heightened expectations for the sport’s future.

Roger Bennett, writer, broadcaster and co-host of Men in Blazers, brings soccer savvy and World Cup lore. He reacts to Iran’s withdrawal and explores how geopolitics will shape the 2026 tournament. He traces soccer’s rise in the U.S., previews California’s role as host, and teases how media, fan culture and city logistics will transform the World Cup experience.

Roger Bennett, founder of Men in Blazers and author of We Are the World Cup, reflects on soccer’s rise in the U.S. He discusses how streaming and gaming fueled fandom. He assesses MLS’s challenge balancing youth development with star signings. He previews World Cup cultural impact and shares hopes for Team USA.