Algerian Radio
A joint study conducted by FIFA and the World Trade Organization (WTO) has revealed that the 2026 World Cup, scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will generate economic benefits exceeding $80 billion.
This edition will be the first to feature 48 teams and a total of 104 matches. It is expected to attract approximately 6.5 million visitors, with fan spending estimated at $13.9 billion. This will translate into an increase in global economic activity of about $40.9 billion, in addition to the creation of over 824,000 full-time jobs.
The Azteca Stadium in Mexico City will host the opening match, while the final will be played in the New York-New Jersey area on July 19th, concluding a tournament with matches spread across 16 major cities.
Forecasts indicate that the United States will be the primary beneficiary, with revenues reaching $17.2 billion and approximately $3.4 billion in tax receipts, while creating about 185,000 new jobs.
At the city level, Los Angeles leads in expected revenues, with receipts approaching $594 million, surpassing the figures achieved during the hosting of the 2022 Super Bowl.
The study also predicts an increase in costs for spectators: the average expenditure of an international visitor is expected to reach approximately $416 per day, for an average stay of 12 days and attendance at least two matches.
In contrast, the price for a hotel night in Los Angeles could reach $480. As for tickets, rates for the group stage are expected to start at $700 and could exceed $10,000 for premium seats during the final, according to a demand-based pricing system.
This edition is considered the most significant in the history of the World Cup, both in terms of the number of participating nations and the economic benefits, reflecting the major transformation of football on a global scale.
