The 2026 FIFA World Cup is coming to North America this summer! Our recent insights will help global mobility professionals stay informed about the potential impacts of the Cup on travel, accommodations, and immigration.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is coming to North America this summer! This soccer (aka football) competition between senior men's national teams that belong to the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) is held every four years. This year’s event will take place from June 11th to July 19th. Because the World Cup is hugely popular, global mobility professionals need to stay informed about the potential impacts of the Cup on travel, accommodations, and immigration.
For the first time ever, the games are not being held in one host country, but instead in three: the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. The 16 host cities are:
- U.S.: Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco area, and Seattle
- Canada: Toronto and Vancouver
- Mexico: Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Monterrey
The 2026 World Cup will feature 48 teams competing in 104 matches, making it the largest tournament in history. The U.S. will host 78 matches; Canada will host 13. Mexico will also host 13 games and will get the ball rolling with the first matches taking place in Mexico City and Guadalajara. After that, matches will take place daily (except for 5 rest days in July) in various other host cities. All the final matches (including quarter finals and semi-finals) will be played in the U.S. However, the Cup is anticipated to impact all host cities to varying degrees for the tournament’s duration.
Moving the Ball
With so many host cities, travel will be impacted region wide. International and domestic travel is expected to be impacted with fans traveling to cheer on their teams. Airlines will likely adjust their schedules to accommodate the increased demand, though travelers should be prepared for increased airfares, crowded airports, enhanced security protocols and potential delays during the timeframe surrounding the World Cup.
Some Cup fans may take to the roads to travel between host cities, where practical. Because the Cup will take place during the summer vacation season, roadways are expected to be very busy.
If possible, consider postponing relocation and business travel to the host cities during this period. However, if travel is unavoidable, booking flights well in advance and staying updated with any schedule modifications will be critical.
Netting Housing
The World Cup is expected to result in intense competition for housing. Obtaining reasonable temporary lodging during this period will be especially challenging due to the increased demand and higher prices. Book early because corporate housing, hotels, and vacation rentals are already filling up.
Securing permanent rental housing during this time may also be challenging. Property owners may take advantage of the influx of visitors (and higher prices) by turning long-term rentals into short-term rentals.
Keep Dribbling: Immigration
Visa requirements for entry into each of the three host countries will vary depending on an individual's citizenship and planned duration of stay. It is not too early for employees to begin educating themselves regarding the visa requirements and entry regulations. Immigration processing times in all three countries will likely increase before the World Cup. Consult the official websites of each country or the respective consulate in your home country to stay updated on the latest visa regulations, application procedures, and processing times.
The impact to the World Cup of the ever-changing U.S. immigration rules and regulations is still unknown. Some World Cup fans will not be able to attend the matches in the U.S because of travel bans. Others will face high fees and long visa processing times. This may result in more fans attending matches in Canada and Mexico.
Breakaway
Flexibility and patience may be the key attributes needed during the World Cup to allow assignees and relocating employees to set themselves up for success. Even local travel near host stadiums may require planning and patience. If possible, consider allowing employees in the host cities to work from home at least 1-2 days per week.
GOOOOAAAAAALLLLLLLL!
The 2026 World Cup brings together rabid fans and casual viewers of the globe’s most popular sport. It’s not too early to start educating internal stakeholders regarding the potential impact of the tournament. Planning proactively, staying informed, and remaining flexible will be key. Ensure a GOOOAAAALLLLL by providing smooth and seamless support to your relocating employees during this time. Leveraging Cornerstone’s expert Mobility Consultants and robust supplier network will ensure your employees receive the critical support they need.