In the run-up to the 2028 presidential election, several hopefuls are not just strategizing and speaking at rallies but are also making their presence felt at the FIFA World Cup, showcasing their support and perhaps, subtly courting the soccer fanbase. Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, a noted sports enthusiast, is leading the charge as he prepares to attend his second World Cup game, watching Iraq versus France in Philadelphia's Lincoln Financial Field.

Shapiro's engagement doesn't stop at merely watching the games. He's taken a proactive role in making the event accessible to Pennsylvanians, distributing 700 free tickets to community organizations, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and the unique opportunity the World Cup presents. His office highlighted these efforts as a blend of community service and economic development, aiming to bolster the state's visibility and attractiveness to business leaders and tourists alike.

Joining Shapiro in the World Cup attendance roster are other prominent figures like California Governor Gavin Newsom and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who recently took in the U.S. opener against Paraguay. Meanwhile, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill have also been spotted at games, signaling a growing trend among politicians to align themselves with international sports events.

However, not all potential candidates have shown interest in the games. Senators Cory Booker, Jon Ossoff, Raphael Warnock, and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, along with Senator Ted Cruz, have so far stayed away from the World Cup buzz. This disparity in engagement levels could speak volumes about their campaign strategies and voter engagement approaches.

The politics of attending a World Cup game are nuanced, according to Democratic consultant Eric Koch. He notes that while the ticket prices and geographical challenges pose barriers, the unifying nature of the U.S. team's success provides a valuable political opportunity. Koch argues that for Democrats, showing genuine support for the team could help bridge connections with voters and foster a sense of patriotism, provided the effort is authentic.

As the tournament progresses and the U.S. team hopefully advances, the political arena might witness increased involvement from more candidates, all eager to rally behind a national cause and possibly, win over some hearts in the process. Whether this will translate into electoral success remains to be seen, but for now, the World Cup stands as a potent stage for political visibility and voter engagement.