John Denver has unofficially become the voice of the 2026 World Cup!
How John Denver Became the Theme Song to the World Cup
This year’s World Cup is being held in North America with most of the host cities in the United States. And while “The Star Spangled Banner” will remain the official anthem of the U.S. Men’s National Team, a new song has emerged as a battle cry for both fans and players alike.
If you’ve watched the U.S. games this year, you may have noticed the stadiums are playing John Denver’s 1971 hit “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” And fans have been belting out the track word for word.
Fox Sports captured one of these moment following the United States’ win over Australia on Friday (June 19).
The World Is Catching On to “Take Me Home Country Roads”
It doesn’t stop with the Americans, however. Videos have emerged of players and visiting fans from other countries getting in on the action.
This compilation video shows shows Dutch fans enjoying a road trip in a Dodge Ram while singing the song, a bar filled with Scottish fans belting it out and an entire stadium singing the song during the Czechia vs. South Africa match.
And here’s a video of Scotland fans singing the song and they’re not even at a soccer match. Instead, they are taking in a Red Sox game at Fenway Park.
Visiting World Cup Fans Are Falling in Love with Country Music
The United States has a lot of visitors due to the World Cup and many of them are enjoying their visit — especially the more country-fied parts of the nation. Many tourists have been visiting honky tonks and rodeos, driving back roads and even listening to country music.
Most notably is the German tourist who has gone viral for his newfound love of Ella Langley. In fact, @FreddyLA7’s adoration became such an internet sensation, she invited him to her Oklahoma show and even brought him backstage.
Country Stars With Their Own Bars + Restaurants
Of all of the side hustles country artists could partake in, opening a bar or restaurant is the most fitting — and very common. After all, many of these stars got their start on a barstool, tip jar nearby, playing their music for anyone who would listen.
These places feel like home for many of these singers. Over the years, several artists have gotten into the bar or restaurant game, and for a select few, brands have turned into franchises with several locations and/or concepts — we’re looking at you, Jimmy Buffett!
Let’s take a look at the country star food and entertainment venues that have opened over the years.
Gallery Credit: Jess
