Preparations ramp up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America

On June 11, 2025, the countdown began to the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is set to take place in various cities across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Among the notable host cities, Philadelphia is preparing to welcome soccer fans from around the globe, as it will host five Group Stage matches during the tournament. This event represents a significant opportunity for the city, coinciding with other major events such as the MLB All-Star Game, NCAA March Madness, and the PGA Championship. Philadelphia aims to leverage the World Cup to boost its local economy, with plans to attract visitors and maximize economic benefits throughout the year leading up to the World Cup. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Philadelphia is also gearing up to host eight matches in the new FIFA Club World Cup in 2025, showcasing its commitment to soccer. Lincoln Financial Field will serve as one of the primary venues, and the city's tourism officials are focused on creating a vibrant environment for both fans and community members. Local businesses are preparing for a surge in soccer enthusiasts, with establishments like Lion Sports Bar bracing for increased attendance and engagement with soccer culture, indicating a thriving soccer fan base in the city even in its early stages. In Vancouver, the city is similarly preparing for the influx of visitors anticipated during the World Cup, as it will host seven matches in June and July 2026. The Vancouver city council faces challenges regarding accommodation and safety for the expected 350,000 fans. With a tight hotel capacity of only 13,000 rooms, officials are contemplating various innovative solutions, including encouraging locals to consider home rentals. At the same time, Vancouver's mayor is proactive in planning security measures, acknowledging the financial concerns posed by the projected costs of hosting the event amidst economic uncertainty, such as potential downturns and tariffs. As North America gears up for this grand sporting event, cities are not only preparing infrastructure but also engaging local communities and businesses to ensure successful hosting. The scheduled matches are anticipated to foster excitement in cities like Philadelphia and Vancouver, and both cities are looking at the World Cup as a chance to showcase their hospitality and cultural offerings to a worldwide audience. The commitment to making this event memorable is palpable as the countdown leads to one of the biggest world sporting events.