Why are we not more excited about the World Cup?

About this episode

James O'Brien discusses the lack of excitement surrounding the World Cup and the reasons behind it.

James opens the phones on the biggest event in world sport and asks two deceptively simple questions: why aren’t more of us excited, and why aren’t more fans going? From eye-watering prices and tournament overload to FIFA, Donald Trump and the politics surrounding this year’s competition, callers explain why even lifelong football lovers are struggling to feel the usual magic. This episode was recorded on the 11th of June. James O'Brien Daily is a Global production, available every week day on Global Player, or wherever you get your shows. Make sure you subscribe so you never miss an episode.

People in this episode

Host: James O'Brien

Topics covered

• World Cup
• sports
• politics
• fan engagement
• ticket prices
• FIFA controversies

Keywords

• World Cup
• football
• FIFA
• Donald Trump
• sports politics
• fan experience
• ticket prices

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: FIFA

More episodes of James O'Brien Daily

• If Russia might bring war to the UK, why aren't we more scared? · June 12, 2026 · 59 min
• Why does Elon Musk want racist violence on Britain’s streets? · June 10, 2026 · 53 min
• Is University still worth it? · June 9, 2026 · 50 min
• Will tech giants ever protect kids from social media? · June 8, 2026 · 57 min
• Is Twitter for the far-right and should the government come off it? · June 5, 2026 · 60 min
• Farage disrespects Henry Nowak’s parent’s wishes - why? · June 4, 2026 · 50 min