Soccer has surpassed baseball to develop into the third most popular sport in the United States, according to Roger Bennett, founder and CEO of the Men in Blazers Media Network.
Bennett revealed the shift in sports viewership during a recent appearance on Bloomberg’s “The Deal,” signaling a significant change in the American sports landscape. The rise comes as the U.S. Prepares to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, alongside Canada and Mexico.
Men in Blazers, which Bennett founded, has grown into the “single biggest dedicated soccer platform in the United States,” according to Amazon. The network covers all levels of the game, from men’s and women’s club and international competitions.
Bennett’s insights come as investment in soccer continues to grow in the U.S. He indicated that soccer ownership represents a sound investment opportunity, though he cautioned that Major League Soccer (MLS) is unlikely to ever reach the global popularity of leagues like the English Premier League. He attributes the Premier League’s enduring appeal to its deeply rooted history and cultural significance.
The founder of Men in Blazers also emphasized the unique appeal of the World Cup, describing it as the “pinnacle of athletic competition.” His perspective is informed by a long-standing engagement with the sport, beginning with his childhood in England where he observed the distinctive broadcasting traditions of American sports, noting the prevalence of brightly colored blazers worn by commentators.
Bennett’s observations align with a broader trend of increasing soccer interest in the U.S., fueled in part by the success of the 2010 World Cup, which he credits with creating a “hungry latest fanbase.” He and his network sought to build a community around this growing interest, fostering a shared language and experience for fans across the country.
In a recent book, “We Are the World (Cup),” Bennett details the history of the World Cup and the recurring sense of anticipation and anxiety that precedes each tournament. He also reflected on his experiences with ESPN broadcasting legend Bob Ley, recalling a period of contract negotiations where Ley advocated for greater coverage of soccer on the network.
Bennett recently discussed the enduring presence of politics within the World Cup, stating that it is “nothing new.” He argued that the tournament has always served as a platform for showcasing national identity and culture.
