Algeria’s Heartfelt Connection with Kansas City
Kansas City, the smallest host city in the U.S. for the 2026 World Cup, formed a special bond with Algerian fans. Although the city has just over 500,000 residents, it became a hub of excitement during the group match between Argentina and Algeria.
Algerian visitors enjoyed exploring nearby Lawrence, Kansas, discovering a warm reception. “A lot of people don’t even know Algeria exists. And it’s the same for us. We had never heard of Lawrence until the Algerian team came here,” said Hanafi Habbas to local media. The T-shirt shop of David Sauter, situated in Lawrence, experienced sales surpassing typical Christmas figures, thanks to the influx of visitors.
Sauter expressed his joy, saying, “It has been so wonderful how everyone here has just been open with open arms, welcoming people. The Algerians have been amazing.”
Norway’s ‘Viking Row’ Celebration
Making a comeback after 28 years, Norway enchanted fans with their unique “Viking Row” celebration. This spectacle involves fans mimicking Vikings rowing a longboat while chanting and pretending to pull oars to rhythmic drumbeats.
Norwegian fans carried their energetic celebration beyond football matches, to places like a New York Mets game at Citi Field and Times Square. The Norwegian team embraced the fun, joining in the row after a 3-2 victory over Senegal. Ole Frøystad, who popularized the celebration, said, “It’s about rowing for the team… making sure that we get the team to feel good on the pitch.”
The Ranch Dressing Craze
During the World Cup, ranch dressing captivated international attention more than any other American food. Its popularity grew so widespread that even the TSA jokingly warned fans about taking bottles out of the country.
The Tartan Army’s Memorable Presence
Scottish fans, known as the Tartan Army, dominated cities like Boston and Miami with their signature kilts and bagpipes. In Miami, they organized a march from a local bar to a Marlins baseball game.
In Boston, the Tartan Army’s lively spirit led to unprecedented beer consumption. The Sam Adams Boston Taproom ran out of its signature lager one weekend, as Scottish fans drank four times the usual amount. “We’ve never seen anything like it,” said Billy DeCain of the Taproom.
International Love for a Texas Lemonade Stand
A backyard lemonade stand in Texas became an international hit during the World Cup. Managed by Heather Hannish and Ernesto Gloria, it offered $2 lemonades to visitors heading to the stadium in Arlington.
Visitors from places as far as Japan and India left fond messages in the family’s notebook. Hannish cherished the experience, noting, “Being able to share this is something that I can’t even begin to articulate… I think really most people are very good at heart and just want the best for everyone else.”
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