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The FIFA World Cup will once again be held in the United States, and this return is expected to be historic. In 1994, the tournament set an attendance record that lasted for 30 years. In 2026, organizers plan to surpass it thanks to scale, logistics, and global interest.
Up to 10 million international visitors are expected to attend 104 matches across 16 cities in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Experience and Infrastructure
The United States relies on decades of experience hosting major sporting events. The country already has dozens of large stadiums regularly accommodating 60,000–80,000 spectators, as well as a rich history of organizing Olympic Games and international tournaments. Instead of building new venues, organizers are adapting existing arenas to modern football requirements.
City Preparations
Cities are preparing systematically and technologically, considering the entire fan journey from the airport to the stands.
- Multilingual signs and digital tools will appear in airports, public transport, and stadiums.
- In Atlanta and Los Angeles, authorities are expanding transport options, adding bus routes, launching new mobile apps.
- Fan zones, festivals, and public screenings are planned to extend the tournament atmosphere beyond stadiums.
Significance of the Tournament
The 2026 World Cup will be the largest in history:
- held for the first time in three countries — the U.S., Canada, and Mexico;
- uniting millions of fans;
- strengthening the U.S. image as a nation capable of hosting major international events.
