Why the U.S. deserves the Cup bid:
1
From world-class stadiums and training facilities to roads, mass transportation and hotel facilities, the United States holds a clear edge over competing countries Qatar, Australia, South Korea and Japan for the 2022 World Cup. Put the Cup in Qatar and watch traffic turn into full gridlock. Then again, there is something to be said for the European model that centers around train travel to venues and offers cheaper lodging. We’ve seen the “Hostel” movies, though, and would rather get our Marriott points over a chainsaw to the cranium.
2 Dollars and sense
In 1994, the U.S. shattered all World Cup attendance records, averaging nearly 69,000 fans per game. Those were jaw-dropping numbers for a nation considered by many to be third-rate at supporting the sport. The large NFL venues coupled with growing youth soccer and a large immigrant and Hispanic fan base spurred massive turnouts.
3 The next step
“Goal! Goal! USA!” Remember that call from this summer? Soccer is at an all-time high in American and it should be rewarded. A World Cup in 2022 and its subsequent buildup would help usher the U.S. into a world powerhouse. If the goal of the Cup is to celebrate its best players in the very best environment, this bid is a no-brainer.
Why the U.S. may get overlooked:
1. Aussie, Aussie, Aussie: Like the U.S.16 years ago, soccer is not the most popular sport in Australia, sitting behind rugby and Australian Rules Football. But, soccer is emerging with the growing popularity of the A-League and the World Cup would boost the sport’s profile in the country.
2. It Was Just Here: By the time the 2022 tournament is played, the World Cup would have been here 28 years ago and there are plenty of nations who are ready to host another tournament – or have never hosted the games. Since soccer is well established in America and the country already regularly hosts top international games and European club tours, another nation might appreciate the tournament more. Plus, FIFA seems enthralled with developing nations such as South Korea, South Africa and Brazil hosting the tournament.
3. Let’s get serious, USA: Sure, this summer’s World Cup enjoyed great television ratings, especially given the early and mid-morning live broadcasts from South Africa. Despite the awful time slots, ratings were up 31 percent on ESPN from over four years ago. Still, the numbers were equal to the NBA Finals, which have seen a consistent drop in viewership the past few years and the ratings paled compared to NFL coverage. Plus, Major League Soccer’s ratings are weak compared to virtually every other sport. The hardcore soccer fan will show up for the matches, but will Joe Six-Pack care now that the novelty of the sport has worn off?
