Nations United mobilizes churches for evangelism during 2026 FIFA World Cup

Nations United, a coalition of churches and evangelical organizations, is preparing for a significant evangelistic opportunity as the 2026 FIFA men’s World Cup approaches. The tournament, set to begin June 11, will bring millions of soccer fans to 16 cities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. For many churches and ministries, this event represents a chance to share the gospel through community engagement and hospitality.

Launched in 2020 through the North American Sport Movement, Nations United aims to unite and equip churches across North America to make disciples through sports and community outreach. The initiative provides local congregations with custom resources to launch sports-centered outreach efforts, including hospitality initiatives and local viewing parties. These tools are designed to help churches connect with people in their communities during the World Cup.

Dan Williams, a leader with Nations United, emphasized the importance of coordination as churches and mission organizations prepare for the event. “We are collaborating with several cities across North America that are launching their initiatives,” he said. The next two weeks are seen as critical as local teams activate their plans, creating a unified front for evangelism.

In Georgia, the Georgia Baptist Mission Board has adapted Nations United’s materials to launch its own “Mission Georgia World Cup Outreach.” Representing 5,000 Southern Baptist churches, the board is fully supporting the initiative with Nations United. “Nations United exists to unite and equip the Church across North America to make disciples among the nations through sport, play, hospitality and community outreach,” Williams said.

Williams highlighted the significance of the upcoming World Cup and 2028 Olympics in the region. “The nations are no longer only across the world; they are across the street,” he noted. The long-term vision involves building sustainable “disciple-making teams” across all three host nations. These teams will use major sports events as a bridge to build relationships, proclaim the Gospel, serve communities, and create ongoing pathways for people to follow Jesus.

Early results are already emerging. Last weekend, a citywide initiative called Winning Houston launched a “Cup of Nations” tournament, an outreach event influenced by Nations United. Organizers described the event as featuring the world’s largest soccer goal, demonstrating the creative ways churches are engaging with the community.

The movement’s footprint extends beyond North America. Williams is also supporting efforts in other regions, showing the global reach of Nations United’s mission. As the World Cup approaches, churches and ministries are preparing to use this opportunity to serve and share the Gospel, reflecting the call to love our neighbors as ourselves.

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