The World Cup Heads to California
Iran pulling out of the tournament is likely just the first geopolitical shakeup of the 2026 World Cup. With the United States, Mexico and Canada sharing hosting duties, the games could become a flashpoint for tariffs, visas and more. “Men in Blazers” host Roger Bennett previews what’s to come.
March 12, 2026
54 min
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3,247 of 3,393
March 12, 2026
The World Cup Heads to California
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The World Cup Heads to California
Summary
The World Cup may be three months away, but it’s already making news. Iran, which was scheduled to play its first match in Los Angeles, announced Wednesday that it will not participate in the tournament — the first time that’s happened since 1950. And the Iran news is likely just the first geopolitical shakeup of the 2026 World Cup. With the United States, Mexico and Canada sharing hosting duties, the games could become a flashpoint for tariffs, visas and more. “Men in Blazers” host Roger Bennett previews what’s to come.
Guests:
Roger Bennett, author, "We Are the World (Cup): A Personal History of the World's Greatest Sporting Event"; co-host, "Men in Blazers" podcast
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