1994 FIFA World Cup in the United States: A Turning Point for Global Football
The United States hosted the 1994 FIFA World Cup, with the opening ceremony held at Soldier Field in Chicago. The tournament kicked off with Germany’s 1-0 victory over Bolivia. Despite initial US skepticism due to a lack of a domestic professional league, concerns over attendance, grass on AstroTurf venues, heat and humidity, and the vast geographic spread tailored for European TV markets, the event was awarded to the US on July 4, 1988. The US secured 10 votes against Morocco’s 7, while Brazil received 2, under a bidding process occurring during the Sepp Blatter and João Havelange era, which faced criticism about commercialization and market priorities.
Concerns about commercialization extended beyond the host country, with UEFA president Artemio Franchi opposing World Cups catering to multinational companies. His death in a 1983 car crash triggered unfounded conspiracy theories. The tournament’s opening draw in Las Vegas featured celebrities, and the Chicago ceremony was hosted by Oprah Winfrey, who notably fell on stage. Musical performances by Diana Ross and others took place amid media attention due to the O.J. Simpson police chase earlier that day.
On the field, Italy, coached by Arrigo Sacchi, reached the semi-finals with early goals from Roberto Baggio against Bulgaria in New Jersey. Brazil secured their semi-final spot by defeating Sweden, with a late header from Romário after Jonas Thern was sent off. The final in Pasadena ended goalless after regulation and extra time and was decided by penalties. Brazil won 4-2 on penalties following a miss by Italy’s Baresi and saves by Brazilian goalkeepers Massaro and Santos. This victory marked Brazil’s fourth World Cup title.
Following the final, Brazil observed a national holiday. There was a curious incident with customs officials in Recife attempting to collect import tax on goods purchased in the United States, with a poll revealing that 70% of Brazilians believed the duty should have been paid. The 1994 World Cup is widely seen as a watershed moment for both US sports culture and the globalization of football.
