Full Breakdown
“Take Me Home, Country Roads” Becomes U.S. Soccer’s World Cup Victory Anthem
6/24/2026, 12:16:26 AM
Background, FIFA Playlist Request, and Song Selection
FIFA asked each nation to submit playlists for warm-ups, goals and wins. U.S. Soccer consulted players, narrowing options to Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ on a Prayer,” Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline,” and John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” England’s use of “Sweet Caroline” removed it, and FIFA chief business and strategy officer Amy Hopfinger selected “Country Roads” as the victory anthem.
Data & Statistics
Seattle’s Lumen Field seats nearly 67,000; about 66,000 sang after the United States’ 2-0 win over Australia and after a 4-1 victory over Paraguay. The win songs were “Livin’ on a Prayer,” “Sweet Caroline” (unused) and “Take Me Home, Country Roads.”
Fan and Player Reaction
Fans in Seattle, Los Angeles, Boston and Atlanta sang and clapped. Players such as Weston McKennie ran laps; Auston Trusty, Alex Zendejas and Folarin Balogun praised the song. Immigrant viewers said the chorus let them celebrate dual heritage. Coach Mauricio Pochettino called the moment “emotional” and a chance to “connect with people.”
Official Statements & Responses
U.S. Soccer said FIFA’s playlist request prioritized American representation and sing-along appeal. John Denver estate issued a statement appreciating admiration for the music and asserting that “all candidates can benefit from his environmental and humanitarian legacy and from his commitment for peace.” The estate previously asked candidates to refrain from using Denver’s songs, citing a 2016 rally request.
Criticism, Opposition, and Gaps
Commentator Charles Downs framed the stadium sing-along as evidence of a “Golden Age” after BLM-related protests. Others noted Denver’s left-leaning activism and the estate’s objection to politicizing the song, arguing it offers an escapist outlet. Sources differ on whether the anthem is neutral or political, and no FIFA guidance on song politicization is cited.
Why It Matters
The anthem unites diverse fan groups, including recent immigrants, reinforcing national identity during a home World Cup. The collective singing also sustains momentum for the U.S. men’s national team as it enters the knockout stage.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The chanting, the excitement, the energy — we felt that the whole game ... them singing ‘Country Roads’ was pretty special.” — Sebastian Berhalter, Midfielder, U.S. Men’s National Team
- “Look, I love John Denver (rest his soul), but if you had told me that the entire world, apparently, knows ‘Take Me Home, Country Roads’--let alone that it would be a certified World Cup banger--I definitely would not have believed you,” — Charlotte Clymer, Writer & Activist
- “ “We appreciate the admiration recently expressed for John Denver and his music,” the estate wrote at the time, “and believe that all candidates can benefit from his environmental and humanitarian legacy and from his commitment for peace.” — John Denver Estate
- “Five years ago, professional athletes were wearing BLM masks on the field. Now, packed stadiums are singing ‘Country Roads’ after Team USA advances in the World Cup,” — Charles Downs, Commentator, Laura Loomer Show
What’s Next
The United States faces Türkiye in its final group match before a Round of 32 opponent.
