With the 2026 FIFA World Cup less than a year away, excitement is building, and Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh is no exception. His team’s home stadium, SoFi Stadium, is one of the sixteen venues selected to host matches, and Harbaugh is already envisioning the electrifying atmosphere.
He anticipates a truly special event, emphasizing the unifying power of the sport. “I’m just looking forward to the vibe,” Harbaugh shared with Fox News Digital. “It brings people together, you roll out that ball, and all cultural barriers are broken.” He painted a vivid picture of the tens of thousands of fans from diverse nations, their passionate support creating an unforgettable spectacle. “That’s when the magic happens,” he added, highlighting the unique energy of live, international competition.
Beyond the fan experience, Harbaugh also looks forward to witnessing the world’s best players compete at the highest level. He’s keenly aware of the broader impact the World Cup will have, not just on Los Angeles, but on the entire country. He recalled the surge in soccer’s popularity following the 1994 World Cup in the United States, expecting a similar effect this time around.
Harbaugh’s first season coaching the Chargers was a success, culminating in a playoff appearance. Although they fell short of a Super Bowl victory, losing to the Houston Texans in the AFC Wild Card round, the team is already focused on the upcoming season. “There is only one happy team in the NFL, that’s the Philadelphia Eagles, just ‘cause they won the Super Bowl,” Harbaugh noted. “The rest of us are disappointed, and the rest of us are back to work, we are chasing that Super Bowl. To be called World Champions, that is our goal.” The team’s determination is clear, and the upcoming World Cup provides an additional source of inspiration as they prepare for another season.
So, as the countdown to the World Cup continues, the anticipation is palpable. SoFi Stadium is ready to host a global celebration of football, and Jim Harbaugh, along with the rest of the city, is eagerly awaiting the start of the tournament.
