Why World Cup Outreach Matters in 2026
This summer, the world will gather to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup. It’s estimated that more than 5 billion people (a staggering 70% of the global population) will engage with the tournament in some way. For the first time in decades, the world’s most-watched sporting event comes to North America, with matches in U.S. cities including Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Philadelphia, New York and Los Angeles.
Interest in soccer in the United States is expected to grow by 62% among existing fans and 11% among non-fans because the U.S. is hosting. Meanwhile, young adults are increasingly seeking spiritual engagement outside traditional church settings.
World Cup Outreach Creates Natural Gospel Conversations
Luke 5:1 shows Jesus standing on the shore of a lake, meeting fishermen in their everyday workplace to teach them about the Kingdom. The World Cup offers a similar moment. People who might never step into a church building will gather in living rooms, backyards and community spaces to watch matches, celebrate goals and connect across cultural lines.
This presents U.S. churches with a rare opportunity: a cultural moment when sports and community intersect, naturally creating space for meaningful spiritual conversations.
The question for church leaders is simple: What if your congregation was intentionally present in these spaces?
As ministry leaders, we must ask ourselves what this moment means for evangelism. A moment like this presents an opportunity to evangelize in everyday life. It turns out, there is a really simple way to turn natural conversations about soccer into gospel impact.
How Churches Can Prepare for World Cup Outreach
What Church Leaders Can Do Now
World Cup Outreach Through Prayer and Hospitality
Victory Beyond the Cup is Cru’s initiative to mobilize Christians and churches to use the World Cup to spark meaningful conversations, connect across cultures, and share the hope of Christ—right where the game begins. The strategy requires no expertise in the sport, only a willingness to invite people in and build authentic relationships.
- Begin praying for God to open relational doors. Prayer is the foundation of this outreach from start to finish.
- Network with thousands of churches and believers who are actively praying and planning around the opportunity of the World Cup. Exchange insights about different approaches to sharing your faith in your context and reflect on how these can inspire local outreach efforts.
- Access and share training videos focused on integrating faith into sports events. Learn from seasoned speakers about crafting conversations that naturally segue from soccer to faith.
- Cast vision for how your church can leverage the World Cup for Kingdom purposes. Most won’t need to add activities to their schedules, just shift their posture toward hospitality and intentionality.
- Equip your congregation with free resources and training available through Victory Beyond the Cup. You don’t need soccer fanatics, just people willing to lead, invite and empower others.
World Cup Outreach Can Leave a Lasting Impact
This is not about adding another program to your church calendar. Your church members already have relationships with neighbors, coworkers and friends who need to hear the gospel. The World Cup simply provides a timely, culturally relevant catalyst for deepening those connections and creating a space where people can connect and conversations naturally unfold.
World Cup Outreach Beyond the Final Match
In July, we’ll crown the 2026 World Cup Champion. But for churches that engage this moment strategically, the victory can extend far beyond the final match.
Learn more about mobilizing your church at www.victorybeyondthecup.com.
About the Author
Heather Reddy serves as executive director of Victory Beyond the Cup, Cru’s global outreach initiative surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup. She is also a longtime chaplain to the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team through Athletes in Action. A former collegiate soccer player, Heather brings decades of experience in athlete care, spiritual leadership, and global ministry. She is a trusted voice on faith, identity and purpose in sport, and is also a mom who understands firsthand the pressures facing today’s athletes and families.
