The 2026 World Cup, the largest in history with 48 teams and 104 matches, has begun. The BBC is seeking reports from residents of the 16 host cities across Mexico, Canada, and the US about the local atmosphere, business impact, and fan mood.
As the World Cup approaches, cities like Chattanooga, TN, are hosting national teams as base camps. Spain, Iraq, and Germany have set up training facilities, bringing excitement and a global atmosphere to local communities, with fans eager to connect with their favorite players.
Protests and social unrest in Mexico City are jeopardizing FIFA World Cup fan celebrations, with access to the main fan plaza blocked by a teachers' union. President Sheinbaum faces criticism over spending and security concerns amid escalating tensions.
US cities hosting the World Cup are buzzing with excitement, evident in decorated airports. Austin, Texas, not a host city, remains calm, with only small screens showing matches, contrasting with the vibrant atmosphere in Miami. The Saudi national team is based in Austin for its quiet environment.
US cities hosting the World Cup are buzzing with tournament spirit, evident in decorated airports and special lanes for fans. In contrast, Austin, Texas, which is not hosting, shows minimal World Cup presence, though the Mexican community's passion is expected to create a festive atmosphere during matches.
The 2026 World Cup is expected to boost North American tourism, but demand and economic impact vary significantly by host city. While some cities like Houston and Dallas see strong flight booking gains, others like Seattle and Mexican cities lag. Pricing power and fan decisions on travel value are crucial.
Host cities across North America say they are fully prepared as the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the largest ever, begins on Thursday with Mexico facing South Africa. While officials highlight security, transport and fan readiness, controversies over US visa restrictions, exorbitant ticket prices and the barring of Somali referee Omar Artan have emerged.
Immigrant rights advocates are organizing in 11 US host cities for the FIFA World Cup, fearing increased immigration enforcement. Groups are distributing legal aid info, threatening strikes, and creating safe zones to protect fans and residents from potential ICE activity.
Despite widespread marketing, hotels in US World Cup host cities (Kansas City, Houston, Miami, New York) report lower bookings than expected, citing high ticket prices, political climate, and cost of living as factors.
Despite widespread marketing, hotel bookings in US World Cup host cities (Kansas City, Houston, Miami, New York) are lower than expected, attributed to high ticket prices, political climate, and cost of living increases.
