Podcast: 250 Years of the USA

States of Play is a podcast about the FIFA World Cup and the world it reflects in 2026. Through June and July we will look at events as they play out in the U.S, Mexico and Canada, the matches, the teams, the players, and weave them through with the social dynamics, culture and human rights issues that are being played out in parallel.

Welcome to the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence of America.

Two and a half centuries ago George Washington declared independence from British colonisers. We look at what America is, the idea, the reality, who is in and who is out. And ICE is back with higher targets to meet - 10,000 people were detained in the 5 days up to 1st July.

The goalkeeper’s mother who was helped into the U.S by a Chinese businessman, not as was claimed by a Democratic politician. Ahead of Belgium’s clash with the USA comments by Belgian coach Rudi Garcia have caused controversy back home.

Jonathan suggests we all read this book: https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250251091/howtohideanempire/

Features: Evan Whitfield, Jonathan W. Grey, Piara Powar

A podcast by the Fare network

Happy Birthday America!

States of Play is available on all major podcast apps.