First Touch Weekly Ep. 1 - 1986 Failed US WC Bid & 2026 World Cup Boycotts

First Touch Weekly Ep. 1 - 1986 Failed US WC Bid & 2026 World Cup Boycotts

Author: Kickback Soccer Media February 19, 2026 Duration: 27:25

Susannah Fuller hosts the premiere episode of First Touch Weekly as dive into the biggest questions surrounding the road to the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Guardian’s Senior Sports Editor Alexander Abnos breaks down whether a World Cup boycott is truly possible and what it would mean for fans, players, and national teams. Then, we look back at the U.S.’s failed bid to host the 1986 World Cup with veteran journalist Michael Lewis, exploring how that collapse reshaped U.S. Soccer and set the foundation for the modern American game. We close with one of the strangest stories in soccer history, the mystery of South Korea’s “cursed” gold medals.

If you want to hear more from Michael Lewis his newest book looking back on 40 years of soccer coverage is available now here.

  1. 2:38 Alex Abnos (The Guardian) On Potential World Cup Boycott
  2. 14:32 Story Of The USA's Failed 1986 World Cup Hosting Bid
  3. 24:30 South Korea's Gold Medal Curse

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For fans feeling the growing buzz as the world turns toward North America, Kickback '26 is the essential audio companion. This podcast from Kickback Soccer Media digs into the long road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but it’s about far more than just counting down the days. Here, you’ll find a blend of rich storytelling and sharp, modern analysis that connects the tournament to the wider culture of the sport. The focus is on delivering distinct, American-driven perspectives that welcome everyone, from those just discovering soccer to lifelong devotees. Each episode serves as a guide, exploring the narratives, personalities, and strategic shifts that are defining this unique moment in time. It’s about placing the upcoming World Cup within a larger context, examining how the game is evolving both on and off the pitch. By weaving together premium audio documentaries, candid discussions, and cultural commentary, this series creates a comprehensive portrait of soccer’s present and future. The journey through this podcast doesn’t end with the final whistle in 2026; it looks ahead to the legacy the tournament will leave and the stories that will continue to unfold. Tune in for an inclusive, thoughtful, and deeply engaging take on the beautiful game as it builds toward its biggest stage.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 61

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