Why the World Cup Keeps Eluding China

China's national football team failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, marking another setback in President Xi Jinping's ambitious "football reform plan." Launched in 2015, this initiative aimed to elevate China into a global soccer superpower by 2050, involving significant investment in infrastructure, youth development, and coaching. Despite billions of dollars poured into the sport, including the establishment of thousands of new football schools and the recruitment of foreign coaches, the men's national team has consistently underperformed. The team's recent performance in the second round of Asian qualifiers saw them lose 0-3 to South Korea on June 6, 2024, and draw 1-1 with Thailand on June 11, 2024, ultimately failing to secure a spot in the next stage. This continued struggle highlights persistent challenges in developing a competitive football culture and talent pool within the country, despite strong state backing and public enthusiasm.