With the United States set to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico, USMNT fans have plenty of reasons for optimism.
The Americans have entrusted former Tottenham, Chelsea, and PSG manager Mauricio Pochettino with leading one of the most talented squads in recent USMNT history that features Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun, and Weston McKennie.
Before Team USA kicks off the tournament on June 12 against Paraguay, one person buying into the hype is NFL legend Rob Gronkowski, who shared a bold prediction for how far the Americans could go on home soil.
Why Rob Gronkowski Believes Team USA Can Make a Deep Run in the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Speaking on “Up & Adams” about his take on the US Men’s National Team’s chances at the FIFA World Cup 2026, Gronkowski backed the United States to exceed expectations on home soil.
“The boldest take for the World Cup is that I think the USA will do some damage this year,” Gronkowski said.
The legendary New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end believes the unique circumstances as the tournament’s hosts could work heavily in their favor.
“What’s so great is that it’s bringing so much awareness to the game of soccer, to the United States, to, I would say, the crowd that really doesn’t know too much about the game of soccer,” Gronk added.
While Gronkowski believes the United States can make an out-of-the-blue run, he stopped short of predicting that the Americans will lift the trophy.
Instead, the NFL legend laid out what he believes would qualify as a successful tournament for the host nation, suggesting a quarterfinal appearance would be viewed almost like a championship-level achievement for the program.
“My bold take is that we’re going to go pretty far. We’re going to do some damage,” he emphasized. “If we get to the top eight, that’s like the USA winning the World Cup.”
At the same time, he noted that simply advancing to the Round of 16 would still represent a significant accomplishment.
“But if we make it to the top 16, I think that’s a huge success for USA,” Gronkowski said. “I don’t think we’ll win it all, but we’ll definitely make an impact.”
Try Your Hand At PFSN’s 2026 FIFA World Cup Simulator
The United States will enter the FIFA World Cup carrying the expectations that come with hosting the tournament. Pochettino’s side is currently ranked 16th in the world and features one of the most talented squads in recent USMNT history.
The Americans have been drawn into Group D alongside Paraguay, Australia and Turkey. On paper, it is a group they should be capable of advancing from.
After reaching the Round of 16 in each of their last three World Cup appearances, the USMNT will be aiming to take the next step and secure its first knockout-stage victory since its memorable run to the quarterfinals in 2002.
While Gronkowski’s suggestion of a top eight finish may sound ambitious, it’s a fair expectation from a program that’s been dubbed the “Golden Generation” in American soccer. With home support behind them and a favorable group-stage draw, the USMNT will believe a deep run is well within reach.
