Monday night is a big night for American soccer fans as they gather to watch the U.S. team take on Uruguay in the Copa America. While fans are excited about the game, Chris Canetti, the president of Houston’s World Cup 2026 committee, is taking a short break from preparations for the upcoming World Cup to focus on safety and security protocols.
In addition to safety, Canetti is also working on showcasing human rights and sustainability, as well as making soccer more accessible to young players in Houston. Local fans are eagerly anticipating the Copa America match between Argentina and Ecuador at NRG Stadium, hoping to see soccer legend Lionel Messi play in person.
The excitement for the Copa America matches is just a preview of what’s to come with the World Cup in 2026. Canetti describes the World Cup as equivalent to seven Super Bowls in Houston over the span of twenty days. The World Cup experience will extend beyond the seven matches scheduled for Houston, with activities like the World Cup ’26 Fanfest running for thirty-nine days.
The planning for the World Cup is a monumental task as city, state, and federal authorities collaborate with FIFA to ensure a successful event. Canetti stresses that while soccer may be at its core, it’s not just about playing games; it’s about showcasing Houston’s strengths and delivering positive results for our community through initiatives like growing sustainability efforts and promoting human rights. For more updates on these initiatives and other sports news, you can follow Greg Bailey on Facebook, X, and Instagram.