As the 2026 World Cup approaches its dramatic conclusion this Sunday, the United States, which hosted 78 matches across 11 cities, is reflecting on its performance in this global sporting event. With only two matches remaining—the third-place game in Miami and the championship match in East Rutherford, New Jersey—the time has come to assess how the U.S. fared in its second attempt at hosting a men’s World Cup.
For those seeking an engaging experience, the venues offered a vibrant atmosphere. While many of the sprawling NFL stadiums lacked traditional charm, they successfully accommodated large crowds, designed to amplify sound and enhance the excitement. However, the flow of foot traffic within these venues was a concern, as narrow concourses struggled to manage the influx of fans. B+
Transport Challenges
One anticipated issue with hosting the tournament in the U.S. was the transportation infrastructure, which has historically prioritized automobiles. While some cities expanded their public transport offerings with temporary bus services, others inadvertently increased costs for riders. The lengthy travel times to and from venues proved to be a significant drawback. D+
Affordability Concerns
The exorbitant ticket prices for this World Cup have raised eyebrows. Expectations based on United 26’s bid book aligned with typical World Cup pricing, which has generally seen gradual increases due to inflation. However, the 2026 World Cup has emerged as an anomaly, with prices set so high that many fans worldwide found them unattainable.
Fifa acknowledged that this was an unusual opportunity to generate substantial revenue from the tournament, admitting that such exorbitant pricing would not be feasible for future events in different regions. This approach has been perceived as a blatant disregard for soccer fans. Following Fifa’s lead, all stakeholders involved in the event—transport services, food and beverage providers, merchandise sellers, parking operators, and taxi services—implemented similar price hikes. F
Hospitality Experiences
On a positive note, the sense of community displayed during the tournament was heartwarming. Regardless of the steep prices for beer, it was common to see fans from various countries sharing cheers before and after matches. Fifa’s army of volunteers, clad in bright tracksuits, provided assistance and warmth, enhancing the overall experience.
Conversely, not all fans received equal treatment. Some referees and team personnel were denied entry due to decisions made by the Trump administration, creating barriers for fans from countries affected by these policies. The reasoning behind such exclusions was questionable, yet Fifa continued to support the administration’s stance.
It raises the question of how much more inclusive support could have been extended to fans from nations like Côte d’Ivoire, Haiti, Iran, and Senegal had the accessibility of the 1994 World Cup been replicated. While the spirit of those who attended deserves an A, the unprecedented obstacles faced by qualifiers and fans warrant an F.
City Atmosphere Beyond Stadiums
The differences in city atmospheres surrounding the tournament varied significantly, creating a stark contrast between the best and the rest. Cities like Seattle, Philadelphia, and Kansas City embraced their identities as vibrant soccer hubs, fostering a ‘World Cup village’ ambiance. Accessible public viewing parties, colorful banners, and a palpable excitement filled the streets.
In contrast, cities like Boston and the Bay Area managed to offer both hospitality and space for locals to engage with visitors, keeping the festivities alive outside matchdays. However, locations far removed from the stadiums struggled to leverage the tournament’s excitement. For many, being an hour or two away from the action diminished the experience, as some opted to enjoy the games from the comfort of their homes. Texas, despite hosting multiple cities, exhibited a lack of enthusiasm, with reports from Dallas and Houston reflecting a sense of indifference. As the roadshow concludes, many residents in these cities may hardly recall the event that passed through. B-
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