Tom Brady on 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup: 'Incredibly Exciting' for USA

Every upcoming World Cup is always the most important one, but for the United States, this summer is of paramount nature, as the USA is a co-host for the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup.

- 2026 FIFA World Cup on FOX: Schedule, News, Previews

Moreover, the tournament is now a 48-team field, spread across three countries (the U.S., Mexico, and Canada) and 16 cities – the largest edition in history. That's why FOX Sports Lead NFL Analyst Tom Brady, who was part of the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup Draw in December, thinks this summer is a pivotal moment for soccer in the United States.

"It was great to be a part of the FIFA draw, but just to know that there are 48 countries now participating in the World Cup in all of North America is incredibly exciting because it just means more inclusion, more countries, more fans, a broader audience for these incredible games and these athletes to showcase what they've really tried to accomplish their whole life, which is reach the pinnacle of their sport," Brady said in an interview with CGTN Sports Scene about the expanded World Cup field.

"And the fact that they're able to do that in America and showcase it on the biggest stage is absolutely incredible, and it was fun for me to be a part of."

Tom Brady, Wayne Gretzky, Shaquille O’Neal and Aaron Judge all helped out at the World Cup draw in December. (Photo by Jess Rapfogel/Getty Images)

The seven-time Super Bowl champion is no stranger to soccer. He is a minority owner of English Championship club Birmingham City FC. He also recently linked up with Serie A legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic at AC Milan's Feb. 18 match against Como, where Brady received a custom No. 12 AC Milan "Brady" jersey.

Brady mentioned the growth of the game domestically,