Is it called soccer or football?

Much of the English-speaking world calls it “football.” Some call it futbol, futebol or fußball. Italians call it calcio. Americans call it “soccer.” And nobody should have any problem with any of that.

But what is the etymology of the word?

Joe Devine reads from Henry Bushnell’s article on The Athletic as Jon Mackenzie provides additional context, in Ring For Analysis.

Henry’s article on The Athletic: nytimes.com/athletic/7190058/2026/06/08/world-cup-soccer-football

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Additional footage sourced from freestockfootagearchive.com
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