US Troops Abroad Get Live World Cup Access Via USO Partnership
Service members deployed internationally are now able to experience the excitement of the 2026 World Cup thanks to a collaborative effort between the USO and a major sports broadcaster. This initiative ensures that troops can follow Team USA and maintain connections with loved ones back home.
Bringing the Home Atmosphere to Deployed Personnel
USO Jordan operations specialists Dundrey Peoples and Lindsay Gray recently shared details of this partnership, explaining its significance for morale and connection. “We are just trying to bring a home away from home to our service members,” Gray stated. “We go where they go, so we’re trying to bring a little piece of home wherever they are. As remote as it may be, we’ll make a center and try to make it as homey as possible. A living-room like environment.”
Through this collaboration, all World Cup games are being made available to service members. “With the help of this partnership,” Gray continued, “we provide all the World Cup games so they can watch those.” The broadcast offerings include live games, pregame analysis, highlights, expert commentary, and key moments from the tournament.
Boosting Morale and Community
This initiative is designed to foster a strong sense of community and boost morale among those serving abroad, providing a familiar comfort from home. “They’re loving it,” Peoples reported. “I know one of the worries they had in the beginning was, how are they going to be able to watch the games and cheer on Team USA, and thanks to this effort, we’re able to host these games here, and they’re just loving it. The atmosphere is electric every night.”
The impact of this program was highlighted by an instance where a service member in Japan was able to watch the South Africa vs. Mexico match while on a call with their mother in the United States. This allowed them to share the experience simultaneously, bridging the geographical distance.
The Power of Connection Through Sports
Gray explained that a core theme of this effort is fostering “connection.” Enabling service members to watch major sporting events live together not only provides entertainment but also strengthens bonds with family members back home. Peoples echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the profound appreciation service members have for this opportunity.
The championship final is scheduled to be streamed live until July 19.