The World Cup was coming to America in 1993, and FIFA aimed to captivate the U.S. audience by introducing soccer’s premier event in an unprecedented way. With the draw slated for December 1993, they brought out celebrities, most notably Robin Williams, who took the stage and made the event not just about soccer but an engaging show.

However, legends like Pelé were left uninvited due to political conflicts within FIFA, a decision that caused quite a stir among fans and attendees. As the annual spectacle returns to the U.S., society craves a repeat of that star-studded moment, with new icons like Shaquille O’Neal and Tom Brady stepping in.

The night itself was infused with the glamour of a star-studded event yet marred by off-stage drama, showcasing the complex dynamics of sports organization in an era of changing perceptions about soccer in the United States.