The United States is preparing to welcome a massive influx of tourists for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, one of the most important sporting events globally. It is estimated that more than 1.24 million fans will travel to the country to enjoy the tournament, with an average of two matches per person, according to an analysis by the firm Tourism Economics, associated with Oxford Economics. A significant increase in international arrivals is expected, with a projected rise of 60%, as well as a growth of up to 25% in hotel revenue, directly influenced by the celebration of this major sporting event. The World Cup, which will take place from June 11 to July 19, will generate unprecedented demand in the US tourism sector. Experts anticipate an immediate impact due to high hotel occupancy and long-term economic benefits, thanks to the country’s global exposure.
A million fans and an unprecedented impact
The report indicates that 742,000 visitors, representing 60% of the projected total, would not travel to the U.S. if it weren’t for the World Cup. This increase is presented as a crucial boost for the sector’s recovery, especially considering the signs of slowdown that the tourism climate presented in 2025.It is estimated that 40% of the audience present in the stadiums will be foreign.Fans plan for years to follow their teams, organizing unique trips around the World Cup.
Analyst Aran Ryan
Leading cities in benefits: New York, Dallas, and Miami
The tournament will feature 48 teams and 104 matches, of which 78 will be played in the United States. Cities like New York, Dallas, and Miami, venues for key matches, including advanced phase clashes, will be the most benefited by hotel demand. An increase of between 2.5% and 7% is expected in hotel rates and occupancy during June, the period with the most matches. In July, which includes the quarter-finals, semi-finals and the grand final at MetLife Stadium, annual revenues could increase between 1% and 5%.The Impact of Football Powers
Argentina, Brazil, France, and England lead the list of national teams that mobilize the most followers, generating a greater economic impact in the host cities. An unexpected performance by lesser-known teams could further increase the flow of visitors, by creating expectations of historic moments for their fans.Ticket Sales and Expectations
FIFA has already sold over a million tickets after the first draw in September. A second sales process in October also showed high demand, although no official figures have been offered. The next major event of the tournament will be the group draw on December 5 in Washington D.C., at which time the pairings and venues for each team will be defined, allowing for a more accurate prediction of tourist movement in each city.The event will transform the U.S. tourism industry during the summer of 2026.The global reach of the World Cup is unparalleled.
Analyst Aran Ryan
