- The 2026 FIFA World Cup will bring economic gains to U.S. communities, USTA reported.
- Visitors expect to spend more than $5,000 each, 1.7 times a typical U.S. trip.
- One in three visitors plans to stay longer than two weeks.
THE 2026 FIFA World Cup will bring economic gains to communities across the U.S., according to the U.S. Travel Association. However, safety concerns, policy perceptions, and entry barriers may limit the country from fully capitalizing on the opportunity.
USTA research showed international World Cup visitors expect to spend more than $5,000 per person, 1.7 times more than typical international trips to the U.S. One in three planned to stay longer than two weeks and more than 80 percent were open to visiting destinations beyond the largest gateway cities.
“This research shows visitors aren’t just coming for the matches; they are coming to experience America,” said Geoff Freeman, USTA president and CEO. “Being prepared and welcoming strengthens our economy, supports 15 million jobs and reinforces the values we share as a nation.”
The study analyzed soccer fans’ travel intentions across 10 markets in North America, Europe and Latin America. It found that 2026 World Cup visitors will stay longer, spend more and visit beyond the stadiums if conditions allow.
Safety is a top concern for potential visitors, highlighting the importance of the $600 million invested in homeland security for the games, the report said. About one-third of respondents noted concerns over two unimplemented policies: 34 percent cited higher visa application fees and 32 percent cited proposed social media requirements for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization application.
Freeman noted that in sports, you don’t go to the championship unprepared.
“The 2026 World Cup is America’s championship moment—the largest sporting event in history on our soil, with the world watching,” he said. “The demand is there. The fans are coming. Now it’s time for Washington to make sure we are ready to win.”
A separate study by OysterLink found the U.S. hospitality industry is preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with fewer than 100 days before kickoff. In major host markets like Dallas-Fort Worth, hospitality leaders view the tournament as a test for staffing, service and infrastructure. While the sector has added jobs, questions remain over whether the workforce can meet peak demand.
