Read Time: 5 min 49 sec | Reading Level: 7th Grade

The 2026 World Cup kicks off today. 

For the next month (plus extra time), Canada, Mexico, and the United States are hosting the every-four-years fútbol tourney. Teams from 48 countries will go head-to-head in 104 games to see who will hoist the golden trophy. The first whistle blows today in a Mexico v. South Africa matchup in Mexico City, while Team USA plays Paraguay tomorrow in Los Angeles. 

This year, France is the big favorite to take the cup, and superstar forward Kylian Mbappé is expected to win the Golden Boot (for the tourney’s top goalscorer). Spain, Argentina, Brazil, and England are also contenders. 

The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has been hosting the World Cup since 1930. This year’s tournament features several firsts, including:  

A hat-trick of musical guests—Madonna, Shakira, and recently reunited BTS—all scored headlining spots for the World Cup Final Halftime Show. They’ll perform July 19 at MetLife Stadium. 

See when and where you can watch all the kick-offs, red cards, and PKs here.

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CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVE
Sports can teach us a lot about everyday life—the value of teamwork, perseverance, and even loyalty. Athletes’ commitment and hard work encourage us to press on as we seek to win an “imperishable crown,” while a team’s victory can give us a foretaste of the greatest celebration in history. 

“Now everyone who competes exercises self-control in everything. They do it to receive a perishable crown, but we an imperishable crown.” 
1 Corinthians 9:25 (CSB) (read full passage)

What do I want to make sure my kids know in light of this story?
Sports are temporary. Allegiance to Christ is forever… and far better. 

Sports build discipline and character, are a lot of fun, are (usually) good for our bodies, and can help open doors to opportunities like college scholarships or travel. But they can also become an idol or source of identity all too easily. 

Remember that all things—even sports—are worthless compared to knowing Christ (Philippians 3:7-9). Athletes and parents alike should seek to glorify God as they practice, compete, cheer from the stands… and even chug Gatorade.

How can I model loving an enemy when discussing this story?
By practicing good sportsmanship. 

Competition can bring out the best and worst in us. It’s also an incredibly tangible way for us to demonstrate love for our enemies competitors. When Christian athletes choose to rise above jeers from rowdy crowds, continue trying their hardest when the scoreboard isn’t in their favor, and win with grace and dignity, they show our loving Savior to the watching world. When Christian sports fans choose not to say something unkind about the opposing team, celebrate victories mercifully, and mourn defeats humbly, they do the same.

Want more prayers to help you see the headlines from an eternal perspective? Join us in Praying the News, a free Saturday newsletter from TPO.

Gen Z Word of the Week: My sister says she didn’t blow my vuvuzela, but I caught her in 4K.

Family Fun: Canada’s hosting the World Cup… but you know its capital? Test your knowledge with this quiz!

Whipped Cream on Top: Absolutely no lack of volume here...

How Our Kids Are Learning to Think Globally
By reading God’s Great Big Global Church*

What if you could take your kids on an adventure around the world… no TSA required? And even better, what if it were an adventure to explore churches of the world? 

God’s Great Big Global Church by Tim Challies allows readers to explore the lives of ten kids in ten different countries and see how life, worship, and church look different depending on where you live, even as we all serve the same God. Each story is full of fun facts drawn from Tim Challies’ real adventures and will leave your kids excited to go to church on Sunday, knowing they’re part of something bigger. 

Check it out today, and get a free printable passport book!

What We’re Gifting Young Girls
Dignity, by supporting Forward Edge*

For millions of girls worldwide, missing a week of school every single month isn’t a lack of discipline—it’s a lack of safe menstrual supplies. Without safe products, girls fall behind… and keep falling behind until they can’t catch up. 

Forward Edge is changing that with Dignity Kits. It’s safe menstrual supplies… and so much more. These kits keep girls in the classroom, when the alternative is often dropping out. They give girls opportunity, hope, and a reminder that they’re loved.   

A gift of $25 provides 15 girls with kits for a month—15 girls who don’t have to choose between health and their future. Give the gift of dignity today.

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