Visibility and Community Engagement
The high visibility of the glass structure in New York has expanded the digital reach and global audience for both participants during the tournament.
"It's great for visibility, more people, not just in the US but around the world, can see what we're doing, can see the unique things that we're doing, it just gives us more visibility," said Akoto.
The campaign leverages modern digital connectivity to highlight the international community growing around the tournament, contrasting with previous tournaments hosted in the country.
"Back in '94 when the World Cup was played here social media wasn't a thing so we couldn't see what was really going on throughout the country," said Akoto.
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"But now 2026 you know we get to see how the Japanese fans are liking barbecue we get to see the Scottish people taking over Boston, drinking all their beer so it's definitely great that a lot of people can see basically the community that soccer builds and I feel like that's gonna help uh grow the game in this country more."
Franklin managed to adjust his personal schedule around major social obligations, supported by friends who encouraged him to take the unique opportunity.
"The only thing I had to work around was a bachelor party and a wedding, but thankfully, my buddies were excited for me to have the opportunity and said that I couldn't miss doing this, and that you know I have plenty of money for their wedding gifts now, so it's good," said Austin Franklin, Chief World Cup Watcher.
