Not laughing now: How World Cup fans vindicated McKennie’s love of ranch

IRVINE, Calif. — Among the numerous teams in the FIFA World Cup 2026, one has captured significant attention: Ranch Dressing FC. While France and Argentina have dazzled fans, it’s the rise of ranch dressing that is creating a major buzz.

Ranch dressing, dubbed “American Sauce” in some regions, has become a phenomenon during this World Cup. American fans and international visitors alike are discovering its delicious versatility, integrating it into countless meals and memes.

Weston McKennie, the USMNT midfielder and self-proclaimed captain of Ranch Dressing FC, feels a sense of vindication as ranch dressing takes center stage. “I saw it coming,” McKennie remarked in an earlier interview. “I was a trendsetter.”

Historically, McKennie’s love for ranch dressing was met with ridicule. Five years ago, during an Amazon documentary featuring Juventus, he famously revealed his fondness for slathering ranch on pizza, which drew laughter from Italian football icons like Gianluigi Buffon and Giorgio Chiellini. Despite the backlash, McKennie’s enthusiasm for ranch remained unwavering. “It’s amazing,” he insisted, defending his palate against critics.

As soccer fans swarm the U.S. for matches, opinions about ranch dressing are shifting in McKennie’s favor. He is enjoying this newfound acceptance as he contributes to the U.S.’s successful performances in the group stage, where they triumphed over Paraguay and Australia.

“They all gave me a lot of grief for it,” McKennie reflected. “Now they understand what I mean. It’s addicting.” The excitement surrounding ranch dressing even caught the attention of the travel industry; travelers have faced dilemmas packing it in their luggage, often flouting TSA liquid restrictions.

McKennie has kept a close eye on the situation regarding ranch dressing on flights, acknowledging his own past adventures of smuggling ranch back to Italy. “I was very happy to see that the TSA was sending out a report saying that you need to stop traveling with ranch in your bag,” he noted, promising to inform his Italian teammates about these regulations.

McKennie’s World Cup journey has been full of drama, including a memorable incident where he, Christian Pulisic, and Alejandro Zendejas found themselves stranded after their lunch outing. McKennie played a pivotal role in arranging a street-legal golf cart to ensure Pulisic wouldn’t strain his injured calf further.

After their meal, which McKennie described as “excellent” pizza, he is certain ranch dressing was involved. “It’s the best,” he declared, clearly pleased that a once-doubted condiment now enjoys global recognition.

FAQs

Why is ranch dressing trending during the World Cup?

Ranch dressing’s popularity has surged as fans discover its unique taste, resulting in memes and widespread use among visitors.

How has Weston McKennie’s view on ranch changed?

Once mocked for his love of ranch dressing, McKennie now feels vindicated as it gains acceptance and popularity during the tournament.