The wider picture

The performance of the 1994 U.S. Men’s National Team helped to spark interest in soccer across the country. As the United States prepared to host the World Cup that year, the team was seen as underdogs in the international soccer community. Their journey not only captivated fans but also laid the groundwork for the sport’s growth in America.

In a significant development, Ron Howard, the acclaimed filmmaker and actor, is set to release a documentary titled ‘Summer of 94’. Scheduled to premiere on FOX on May 23, 2026, the documentary promises to delve deep into the experiences of the U.S. Men’s National Team during that pivotal World Cup year.

Howard, now 72 years old, recently shared a nostalgic moment on social media, posting a photo of his vintage 1994 USA denim soccer jacket. “Felt nostalgic, so thought I’d go vintage today,” he wrote, reflecting on the impact of that era.

The documentary will feature new interviews and never-before-seen footage taken by players, offering a fresh perspective on the team’s journey. It includes notable figures such as Alexi Lalas, Cobi Jones, and Tony Meola, who were instrumental in shaping the team’s legacy.

Howard, alongside Brian Grazer, is executive producing the project. He stated, “Summer of ’94 tells the story of the unlikely rise of the U.S. Men’s National Team on the road to the 1994 World Cup.” This documentary aims to highlight not just the matches played but the cultural shift that followed.

While the team did not lift a trophy, their influence on American soccer was profound. As Howard noted, “They didn’t lift a trophy, but they changed the sport in America.” This sentiment underscores the documentary’s intention to celebrate the team’s contributions beyond mere victories.

As excitement builds for the documentary, it coincides with the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will run from June 11 to July 19. The U.S. will host the final match on July 19 at the New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Observers are eager to see how the documentary will resonate with a new generation of soccer fans.

Looking ahead, Howard expressed his anticipation for the premiere, stating, “Looking forward to ‘Summer of 94’ on FOX, May 23. #tbt” The release of this documentary is expected to reignite interest in the history of American soccer as the nation prepares for another World Cup experience.