The summer of 1994 marked a pivotal moment in U.S. soccer history, bringing the FIFA Men’s World Cup to the United States for the first time. The event not only showcased legendary performances but also introduced iconic moments that remain ingrained in soccer culture. With the World Cup returning to the U.S. this summer, alongside co-hosts Canada and Mexico, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the legacy of the 1994 tournament and its impact on the sport in America.
FOX Sports, in partnership with Imagine Documentaries, Delirio Films, DICK’S Sporting Goods’ Cookie Jar & A Dream Studios, and Copper Pot Pictures, has announced an upcoming documentary titled "Summer of '94", which will chronicle the rise of the U.S. men’s national team leading up to the tournament. The documentary will premiere on May 23 on FOX and promises to dive into the unforgettable journey of the USA squad, including interviews with key team members and analysts.
A Look Back at the USA's 1994 World Cup Journey
The 1994 World Cup is widely regarded as a turning point for soccer in the United States, bringing the sport into the mainstream in a way it hadn’t been before. "Summer of '94" will take viewers on a journey through the team's remarkable rise, highlighting key figures such as FOX Sports analysts Alexi Lalas and Cobi Jones, as well as other prominent alumni including Tony Meola, John Harkes, Marcelo Balboa, and Eric Wynalda. Through archival footage and personal stories, the documentary will showcase the behind-the-scenes moments and challenges the team faced during their historic run.
A lot of red, white, & denim coming atcha in May. 🇺🇸⚽️ pic.twitter.com/M2Yfnfo94b
— Alexi Lalas (@AlexiLalas) March 13, 2026
Head coach Bora Milutinović, known for his leadership and tactical approach, will also be featured in the film, sharing insights into his strategies that helped shape the U.S. team’s success. The documentary will highlight how this team laid the foundation for the growth of soccer in the United States and captured the imagination of a new generation of fans.
Summer of ‘94 Premieres at SXSW and FOX Sports
Before its debut on FOX, "Summer of '94" will have its world premiere at the SXSW Film Festival in Austin, Texas, on Saturday at the Rollins Theatre as part of the Documentary Spotlight. The film's premiere at this renowned festival adds to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the documentary, giving fans and critics alike a first look at the film’s captivating storytelling.
Following its premiere at SXSW, the documentary will be available for viewing on FOX starting May 23. Fans of soccer and U.S. sports history won't want to miss this in-depth exploration of a team that changed the course of soccer in America.
The Road to 2026: What’s Next for the USA Team?
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, the United States men’s national team is preparing to make its mark on home soil. The tournament, which will run from June 11 to July 19, will be spread across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. The final will take place at New Jersey's East Rutherford stadium, capping off what promises to be a historic tournament.
For U.S. soccer fans, the 2026 World Cup represents the next chapter in the country’s soccer journey. Christian Pulisic and the national team now know their path to the final, with their group-stage opponents and match times revealed. All 104 World Cup matches will be broadcast live on FOX and FS1, with a record 40 matches airing in prime time. Every game will be available to stream live through the FOX One and FOX Sports apps, making it easier than ever for fans to follow the action.
