John Denver's 1971 classic becomes surprise soundtrack for US World Cup run

At the 2026 World Cup, the U.S. men's national team has found an unlikely musical companion in John Denver's 'Take Me Home, Country Roads,' a folk song from 1971 that has turned into an unofficial anthem for the host nation. Yahoo News New Zealand reported that the song fills stadiums with jubilant fans after victories, creating a unifying moment that contrasts with the typical World Cup anthems.

Yahoo News New Zealand'Country Roads' stars as unofficial US anthem at World Cup

"At this World Cup, the host US team's stirring unofficial anthem is...a 1971 folk song?"

Front Office Sports added a financial dimension, reporting that the song generated nearly 1.7 million official streams after the USMNT's June 19 win over Australia, with overall streams jumping 20% as a result. FIFA itself has called the phenomenon one of the tournament's 'defining musical moments,' according to the same outlet.

Today.rtl.lu noted the song's power to bring people together, echoing the stadium-wide singalongs that have become a fixture after U.S. wins. The outlet's coverage framed it as a cultural touchstone that transcends generations.

Front Office Sports explored how the song's resurgence at the World Cup illustrates that decades-old music can still generate significant interest and revenue through modern sports and media exposure. The unexpected crossover highlights the enduring appeal of Denver's ode to West Virginia, now serving as a rallying cry on the international stage.