FIFA’s World Cup Halftime Show Puts American-Style Spectacle on the World Stage

Organizers want the show to be the most-viewed halftime show in history. Having Shakira, Justin Bieber, Coldplay, and BTS will surely help—but do soccer fans want it?

Lionel Messi’s Final World Cup—and the Death of Early Retirement

Argentina’s Lionel Messi was supposed to be done years ago. Now, sports science is helping soccer’s biggest stars rewrite the rules of aging.

The Problem With VAR at the 2026 World Cup Isn’t the Technology—It’s Who Interprets It

The video assistant referee system, or VAR, has led to some controversial calls at the 2026 World Cup. Here’s why.

What Watching a Soccer Final Does to Your Body, According to Science

A recent study tracked hundreds of soccer fans until their favorite team reached the final of a tournament. Their stress levels skyrocketed, and their heart rates jumped too.

Why Do Some Soccer Players Cut the Heels Off Their Cleats?

An image of Portugal forward Pedro Neto’s cleats at the World Cup has reignited a practice among some soccer players: modifying their cleats to relieve heel discomfort.

Messi and Ronaldo Are Building Tech Portfolios. Mo Salah Is Playing a Different Game

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are betting on AI, health tech, and startups. Mohamed Salah is taking a more traditional route beyond football.

Erling Haaland Is Everywhere at the World Cup. Most of It Is AI

Norwegian striker Erling Haaland isn’t just a footballer anymore. He’s become an internet character perpetuated by fans and AI.

The Science Behind Why Soccer Players at the 2026 World Cup Are Cutting Their Socks

Holes in socks have become a curious sight at this year’s World Cup. The reasons why are a weird mix of biomechanics, perception, and player habits.

Mexico’s Victory Over Ecuador Made the Ground Shake. Was It an Artificial Earthquake?

Fans’ euphoric reactions to the Mexican national team’s recent victory in the 2026 World Cup caused a series of unusual vibrations that were detected by seismic warning systems.

Penalty Shootouts: Is the Team That Kicks First More Likely to Win?

Penalty kicks are already proving critical to big wins at this year’s World Cup. But the advantage in penalty kicks has more to do with psychological effects than who kicks first.