The countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is officially underway, and anticipation is reaching fever pitch across North America. With less than a year to go, preparations in host countries Mexico, the United States, and Canada have shifted into high gear. Fans, players, and officials alike are gearing up for what’s set to be the biggest and most inclusive World Cup in history, as a record 48 teams prepare to battle for global football supremacy across 16 cities from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
Mexico is no stranger to the world’s most prestigious football tournament. Having already hosted the event twice—first in 1970 and again in 1986—the country is preparing to make history by welcoming the World Cup for a third time. This time around, Mexico will stage 13 matches in three iconic cities: Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey. The opening match will take place at the legendary Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on June 11, a moment that President Claudia Sheinbaum has described as “a very important moment for Mexico, the eyes of the world will be upon us, and as always, Mexico’s people will be generous and filled with joy.”
Sheinbaum made headlines recently when she announced plans to give away a ticket to the inaugural match to a deserving young soccer fan who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend. “I’m thinking of giving the ticket to a young girl who likes soccer and wouldn’t have an opportunity to come to the stadium,” she revealed during a press conference, underscoring the spirit of inclusion and excitement that’s sweeping the nation.
The numbers behind the event are staggering. Mexican government officials predict more than 5.5 million visitors will descend on the country during the tournament, generating an estimated US$3 billion in revenue. The hospitality sector alone—encompassing hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies—is expected to capture about US$1 billion of that windfall. Beyond the financial boost, the World Cup is projected to create over 24,000 jobs, primarily in the host cities, and analysts forecast a 44 percent increase in tourism for the duration of the event.
To meet the demands of this global spectacle, major investments in infrastructure are underway. Mexico City is pouring roughly US$100 million into upgrades for Estadio Azteca and transportation improvements, ensuring fans can move smoothly to and from the stadium. Guadalajara will see US$50 million invested in access and service upgrades at Estadio Akron, while Monterrey is channeling a similar sum into projects around Estadio BBVA and local transit routes. While some debate the scale of public investment, supporters argue the long-term benefits—ranging from job creation to international exposure—will pay dividends for years to come.
Of course, Mexico isn’t hosting the World Cup alone. The United States will stage the lion’s share of matches—78 in total—across 11 cities including Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, Seattle, and the San Francisco Bay Area. Canada will host games in Vancouver and Toronto. The expanded format, with 48 teams (up from 32), means the number of matches will soar from 64 to 104, promising more action, drama, and unforgettable moments for fans everywhere.
One city positioning itself as a central hub for fans is Cancún, in Mexico’s Caribbean region. According to Quintana Roo Tourism Minister Bernardo Cueto, Cancún International Airport is uniquely poised to serve as the “gateway to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.” It’s the only airport in Mexico offering direct flights to all 16 World Cup host cities, including the three Mexican venues, 11 U.S. destinations, and both Canadian hosts. “Quintana Roo [Cancún’s state] is much more than sun and sand,” Cueto noted. “Its tourist, historical, natural, and culinary attractions make us a must-see for soccer fans visiting Mexico, the United States, and Canada in 2026.”
Frequent flights between Cancún and the major host cities will make it easier than ever for fans to catch matches across the continent. To further bolster its international appeal, authorities are exploring new direct routes from Spain, the United Kingdom, and Poland, aiming to attract even more global visitors. The Mexican federal Tourism Ministry estimates that the country could see up to 5 million additional tourists in 2026, thanks in large part to this unprecedented connectivity.
Adding to the excitement, organizers are in talks with FIFA to bring an official FIFA Fan Fest to Cancún’s famous beaches. Rodrigo de la Peña, president of the Cancún, Puerto Morelos, and Isla Mujeres Hotel Association, explained, “This is an ongoing initiative. There is not yet a set date, venue, or activities, but the package would include tickets, activations, a giant screen zone, cultural and culinary experiences, and, of course, the vibe of the Mexican Caribbean.” If approved, the event could mirror the success of past Fan Fests—Moscow’s 2018 edition attracted over 3 million attendees and generated about US$60 million in economic activity, while Brazil’s 2014 festivities brought in up to US$40 million in additional revenue for host cities.
Hotel groups in Cancún are eagerly awaiting authorization to use World Cup branding in their tourism packages, hoping to capitalize on the surge in international visitors. As de la Peña put it, “This can reinforce Cancún’s image as a tourist, sports, and cultural destination. It is aligned with a state plan to position the city as a festive hub during the World Cup.”
Meanwhile, teams from around the globe are already ramping up their preparations. South Korea, under head coach Hong Myung-bo, has embarked on a U.S. tour to test its mettle against top-tier opposition. The squad will play friendlies against the United States on September 7 in New Jersey and against Mexico on September 10 in Nashville, Tennessee. Hong is focused on building a competitive squad for next summer’s tournament, experimenting with player combinations and integrating new talents like Korean-German midfielder Jens Kastrov. “The World Cup is about 10 months away. Now, we have to enter the World Cup system in earnest. The results of the game are important, but we have to continue experimenting with which players can show their competitiveness in June next year,” Hong said before departing.
Injuries and roster changes are part of the journey. South Korea’s central midfielder Hwang In-beom was dropped due to a calf injury, replaced by Seo Min-woo, while the likes of Son Heung-min, Lee Jae-sung, and Lee Kang-in headline a dynamic squad. Hong’s approach highlights the intensity and unpredictability of World Cup preparation, as teams adapt to setbacks and search for the right mix of experience and fresh energy.
As the world turns its attention to North America, the stage is set for a World Cup like no other. From the bustling streets of Mexico City to the sun-soaked beaches of Cancún and the sprawling stadiums of the United States and Canada, the 2026 FIFA World Cup promises to unite fans, cultures, and nations in a month-long celebration of football’s enduring magic. With infrastructure upgrades, strategic tourism initiatives, and a new era of competition on the horizon, all eyes are on June 11, 2026—and the world can hardly wait.
