The countdown to the biggest summer in U.S. soccer history is officially on. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just around the corner, all eyes are on Mauricio Pochettino and his USMNT squad selection. As joint-hosts, the United States are preparing for a defining moment—one that could rewrite the record books.

Here’s everything you need to know about when the roster will be revealed and what’s at stake.

When is the USA World Cup roster announcement?
Mark your calendars: The United States will unveil its 2026 World Cup squad on Tuesday, May 26 at 3 p.m. ET during a live event in New York City. It’s the moment fans have been waiting for, as Pochettino names the 26 players who will carry the nation’s hopes on home soil.

Key dates to know
Per FIFA rules, teams must submit a provisional roster by May 11, with the final squad due no later than May 30. The final list must include at least 23 players and no more than 26—and almost every team is expected to go with the maximum. At least three of those spots must go to goalkeepers, but otherwise, Pochettino has plenty of flexibility to build his ideal squad.

What’s on the line?
This isn’t just another World Cup. The USMNT has never advanced past the quarterfinals in the modern era—they reached that stage just once, back in 2002, after a memorable Round of 16 win over Mexico. No U.S. men’s team has ever beaten a non-CONCACAF opponent in the knockout round. Pochettino’s squad will look to change that, aiming for a historic deep run that could galvanize a soccer-crazed nation.

As the roster reveal approaches, speculation is heating up. Some players are locks if healthy, while others are fighting for their spots. With the tournament kicking off June 11, every decision matters. Stay tuned—this summer is going to be unforgettable.