My 4th of July is ... the Next U.S. World Cup Match

Forget Trump's politicized pageantry. The most authentic display of American patriotism is playing out on the pitch.

Barry Blitt for The New Yorker

It’s no surprise that America’s 250th birthday is turning out to be ... “Red, White and Kinda Blue.” Barry Blitt’s illustration, which dropped almost two months ago, perfectly captures the emptiness Trump left where a national celebration should be. Meanwhile, the US Men’s National Team—a squad powered by dual-nationals, immigrants, and first-generation players—is actively redefining what true American identity looks like on the global stage.

Need a real dose of patriotism? Watch the US soccer team—the one jewel Trump doesn’t crave (or mention), because they represent the new American mosaic, the 14th Amendment in cleats, the birthright melting pot he despises.

Seattle-based artist, Rowan Rathbun, @rowan_art

The USMNT’s Only Forward Art Series’ latest edition celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with a special piece of art from Cuban-American artist ABSTRK.

Patrick “Pico” Gabaldón, El Paso, Texas, via gabaldonart

USMNT player Malik Tillman celebrates a free-kick goal in the 82nd minute during the 2026 World Cup Round of 32 match between the USA and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Design: ESPN. Photo: Michael Steele/Getty Images.

But beware of the cynical co-option.

Everyone is suddenly eager to claim this team for its skill, success, and attention. Right on cue, the far right—especially the agency that oversees ICE—is desperately trying to steal their shine.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which runs ICE. Via Instagram.

Project LibertyUS via Instagram

But they don’t get the last word. The community does.

Via: NoICEinTheCup.us ⚽️. A national call to action to keep the World Cup safe, free from fear, and joyful, especially for immigrant communities. We know when people come together, ICE melts. noiceinthecup2026. Illustration: Angel Faz/ @thefaztastic, Dallas, Texas.

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