What's Columbus' connection with this year's World Cup?

World Cup Soccer 2026: We look at the hype and the money behind this super-sized sports event. How has the United States' management failed/succeeded compared to past years, and why issues like ticket and hotel prices are driving tourists away. Although Columbus is not hosting official tournament matches, the city is heavily involved in World Cup festivities, featuring a pre-tournament friendly match, international base camps and city-wide watch parties. The Ecuador national team is also training in Columbus. And Columbus Crew midfielder Max Arfsten has been selected for the United States men’s team for this year's World Cup. Also, former Crew star Cucho Hernandez will suit up for Columbia. We're talking about it all on this hour of All Sides. Guests: Michael Arace, sports journalist and founder, Disrespected Media Ryan Chen, assistant professor, sports leadership and management, Miami University (Amanda Loman / AP)

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What's Columbus' connection with this year's World Cup? is an episode from All Sides with Ann Fisher by WOSU Public Media.

This episode is 00:49:59 long.

This episode was published on May 27, 2026.

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