The wider picture
The performance of the 1994 U.S. Men’s National Team helped to spark interest in soccer across the country. This team, considered underdogs in the international soccer community, made a significant impact during the World Cup held in the United States. Their journey not only captivated fans but also laid the groundwork for the growth of soccer in America.
On May 23, 2026, FOX will premiere the documentary titled Summer of 94, which chronicles this pivotal moment in U.S. soccer history. Executive produced by acclaimed filmmaker Ron Howard and his long-time collaborator Brian Grazer, the documentary promises to offer a deep dive into the team’s experiences, featuring new interviews and never-before-seen footage taken by the players themselves.
Ron Howard, now 72 years old, recently shared a nostalgic moment on social media by posting a photo of his vintage 1994 USA denim soccer jacket. “Felt nostalgic, so thought I’d go vintage today,” he remarked, reflecting on the significance of that era in American sports.
The documentary Summer of 94 aims to tell the story of the unlikely rise of the U.S. Men’s National Team on their road to the World Cup. While they did not lift a trophy, their influence on the sport in America was profound. As one observer noted, “They didn’t lift a trophy, but they changed the sport in America.” This sentiment underscores the lasting legacy of the team and the cultural shift they inspired.
Among the players featured in the documentary are notable figures such as Alexi Lalas, Cobi Jones, and Tony Meola, who played crucial roles in the team’s journey. Their stories, combined with archival footage, will provide viewers with an intimate look at the challenges and triumphs faced during the tournament.
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, set to run from June 11 to July 19, excitement is building not only for the tournament itself but also for the stories that surround it. The U.S. will host the final match at the New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., further igniting interest in the sport.
With the premiere of Summer of 94 just around the corner, Ron Howard expressed his anticipation by stating, “Looking forward to ‘Summer of 94’ on FOX, May 23. #tbt” The documentary is expected to resonate with both soccer fans and those who lived through the transformative period of the 1994 World Cup.
As the release date approaches, observers are eager to see how the documentary will capture the spirit of a team that played a crucial role in changing the landscape of soccer in the United States. Details remain unconfirmed, but the excitement surrounding this project is palpable as fans prepare to relive a defining moment in American sports history.