Fox Sports is gearing up to release "Summer of '94," an insightful documentary that delves into the remarkable ascent of the U.S. Men's National Team in the context of the 1994 FIFA World Cup. This film chronicles their journey from being considered underdogs to a team that significantly boosted the sport's popularity in America. Featuring exclusive interviews and never-before-seen footage, the documentary aims to reveal the untold story behind a pivotal moment in U.S. soccer history. Its premiere coincides with the anticipation for the 2026 World Cup, reflecting on the lasting legacy of the '94 squad.

Scheduled to debut on Fox on May 23, "Summer of '94" will first be presented at the SXSW Film Festival on March 14, as a highlight of its documentary showcase. Directed by Dave LaMattina and Chad Walker, the film navigates the narrative of the 1994 U.S. team, which, despite lacking a professional domestic league at the time and facing low global expectations, managed to capture the nation's attention. Their inspiring performance laid crucial groundwork, eventually leading to the establishment of Major League Soccer just two years later.

The documentary incorporates fresh perspectives from prominent figures such as Alexi Lalas, Cobi Jones, and Tony Meola, alongside other teammates like John Harkes, Marcelo Balboa, and Eric Wynalda. It also showcases candid archival material, some of which was personally recorded by the players using camcorders. The team, guided by head coach Bora Milutinović, found themselves in uncharted territory, constructing a path for American soccer without a pre-existing blueprint or guaranteed success.

LaMattina and Walker expressed their motivation for making the film, stating that they felt this team's impact on American soccer was often underestimated. They emphasized that while the team didn't win a trophy, their contribution was instrumental in transforming the sport's landscape in the U.S. This documentary arrives as Fox Sports prepares to broadcast the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to commence on June 11 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, underscoring the enduring significance of the 1994 team's legacy.

Barry Nugent, VP of development and original programming at Fox Sports, lauded "Summer of '94" for its compelling portrayal of soccer's turning point in America. He highlighted how the 1994 World Cup irrevocably altered the sport's trajectory, and how the film honestly depicts a group of players who, under formidable circumstances, elevated U.S. soccer onto the world stage. The documentary is a collaborative effort, with executive producers including Brian Grazer, Ron Howard, and Sara Bernstein, among others, from Imagine Documentaries and Fox Sports. It is produced by Imagine Documentaries in collaboration with Stand Together and Dicks Sporting Goods' Cookie Jar & A Dream Studios.

This film stands as a testament to the pioneering spirit and unexpected triumph of the 1994 U.S. Men's National Team, whose endeavors continue to resonate within the realm of American sports, demonstrating how their efforts cultivated a burgeoning interest in soccer nationwide and ultimately fostered the growth of the sport.