The USMNT is in Qatar for the 2022 World Cup. But that doesn’t mean they haven’t been feeling the love from over 7,000 miles away.
The US Soccer Federation bought ad space on billboards in the hometowns of each of its 26 players, featuring personalized letters from the beloved television soccer coach Ted Lasso, played by Emmy winner Jason Sudeikis.
Some of the letters are particularly corny, filled to the brim with Lasso’s famous (if only slightly weird) one-liners. Others offer rather subpar puns. All are written in classic Comic Sans font, the perfect embodiment of just who Lasso is as a character.
It was a nice touch, one that seems at least somewhat aimed at bolstering excitement ahead of Team USA’s World Cup run. Maybe it’ll even help sell some Apple TV+ subscriptions. Because capitalism…
MORE: All 26 players heading to Qatar for the USMNT
In all seriousness, though, it’s a cute gesture, one that the players and their families back home surely will enjoy. Now, we’ll just have to see if Lasso’s messages of encouragement translate to goals and success. Believe.
Here are a few of the Ted Lasso billboards popping up in cities across the country.
Here are the signs for goalkeeper Matt Turner, striker Jordan Morris, right back DeAndre Yedlin and midfielder Luca de la Torre:
This one’s for midfielder Cristian Roldan:
Center back Cameron Carter-Vickers got a chance to sit in the spotlight, as well:
As did midfielder Brenden Aaronson, who saw his letter pasted on a barn:
Texas native Kellyn Acosta had his billboard planted in hometown Plano, just 18 miles away from Dallas:
Forward Jesus Ferreira and center back Tim Ream got acknowledged, as well:
Goalie Ethan Horvath made the cut, too:
Defender Sergino Dest got a shout-out in Brooklyn
Even head coach Gregg Berhalter got in on the action!
As did midfield general Weston McKennie:
