What Happened
USMNT forward Haji Wright recently shared an open letter addressed to the city of Los Angeles. In his message, he expressed gratitude to his hometown for its significant role in shaping his soccer journey and urged for strong local support when the U.S. Men`s National Team begins its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign. The 27-year-old, a native of Los Angeles, reminisced about how the city ignited his passion for the sport and shared his excitement about the potential opportunity to play World Cup matches in his own city. Wright`s letter quickly spread on social media platforms, generating considerable enthusiasm among American soccer fans anticipating the tournament next summer.
The Bigger Picture
The 2026 FIFA World Cup marks a pivotal moment for soccer in the United States, with games scheduled to take place across various cities in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. As a major host city, Los Angeles is expected to play a key role in the success and visibility of the tournament. Wright`s letter aligns with a broader initiative by U.S. Soccer aimed at strengthening the connection between the national team players and local communities leading up to the global event.
What’s Next?
Haji Wright is currently with the USMNT squad, focused on their participation in the Gold Cup. Their next match is scheduled against Costa Rica in the quarterfinal on June 29.
Rupert Caldwell 
Tristan Blackwood