Ricardo Pepi Reflects on His Journey and Aspirations Ahead of World Cup 2026

With the U.S. Men’s National Team set for the FIFA World Cup 2026, 26 players have been announced for the roster, including forward Ricardo Pepi. To gain deeper insight into their lives and experiences, each player was asked a series of 26 quick-fire questions. Here’s what Pepi had to say.

When asked about his day, Pepi shared, “I just got home from training a couple hours ago. We have a very important match tomorrow, so I'm looking forward to that and preparing myself for that game.” Identifying as a morning person, he emphasized the importance of starting his day with a good breakfast and some light exercise.

Living in the Netherlands has been a positive experience for Pepi. “It’s been great. I've been playing for two different clubs in two different cities, so it's been fantastic,” he remarked, appreciating the friendliness of the locals and the quality of food. He also recommended a bike ride in Amsterdam for first-time visitors, noting that it’s a bit more challenging than it seems.

Reflecting on his roots, Pepi expressed his fondness for El Paso, particularly missing the culture and cuisine. “My favorite meal is always going back to my mom's house and having her cook something,” he shared. Enchiladas, a family favorite, top his list of dishes he craves when home.

As for his aspirations, Pepi cherishes his nickname "El Tren," which he earned during his early soccer days in Dallas. He also revealed his love for Kanye West’s song "All of the Lights," which pumps him up before games. Ultimately, he hopes fans will recognize his dedication on the field, stating, “I just want people to enjoy my game and feel that I'm committed to this team and committed to this country.”