It's the Biggest World Cup Ever, So Why Are U.S. Hotels So Quiet?
2026 North and Central America World Cup
Stadiums Quieter Than Expected
Atmosphere at the Scene Falls Short of Expectations
2026 North and Central America World Cup is now just about a month away from kickoff.
This tournament is the largest World Cup in history, with a significant increase in the number of participating countries and matches.
However, with hotel booking rates in the U.S. falling short of expectations, there are concerns about the event's box office success.
80% of Hotels Say "Reservation Rates Lower Than Expected"
80%
Hotel Bookings Below Expectations
11 Host CitiesSurveyed Member Hotels
According to AFP on May 5 local time,
the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) surveyed its member hotels in the 11 World Cup host cities, including New York and Los Angeles.
The results showed that 80% of respondents said "booking rates are lower than expected."
Despite high hopes for a World Cup boost,
actual booking trends have not lived up to expectations.
Visa Barriers and Geopolitical Uncertainty Are Holding Things Back
Why So Empty?
Visa Processing Barriers
Delays and higher rejection rates are making it difficult for overseas fans to visit the U.S.
Geopolitical Uncertainty
Unstable international relations and concerns about crime and safety are reducing travel demand.
One of the main reasons cited by hotels is visa barriers and geopolitical uncertainty.
About 65% of respondents identified these two factors as the primary causes of weak bookings.
U.S. President Donald Trump has promoted the North and Central America World Cup on several occasions,
but the administration has maintained strict visa screening policies for visitors.
As a result, there are concerns that overseas fans may feel burdened about visiting the U.S.
Tickets, Hotels, and Even Transportation Costs Have Skyrocketed
10,990dollars
Final Match Ticket Highest Price
Soaring spectator costs are also a major burden.
FIFA has implemented a dynamic pricing system for this tournament,
causing ticket prices to fluctuate widely based on demand.
The highest price for a final match ticket is $10,990,
equivalent to about 16 million won,
which critics say makes it difficult for ordinary fans to attend.
4,000dollars
Hotels Near the Stadium
Usually about $300
Accommodation costs have also soared.
For hotels near MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where the final will be held,
the price per night is about $4,000,
equivalent to about 6 million won.
That's over ten times the usual rate of about $300.
150dollars
New York ↔ Stadium Round-trip Train
Usually $12.9
Transportation costs are no exception.
A round-trip train ticket from New York to the stadium is about $150,
which is about 220,000 won.
The distance is only about 15km, and the usual fare is $12.9,
but during the World Cup, the price is more than ten times higher.
AirfareTravel Cost Increase
Impact of Middle East War
Overall spectator costs are rising
On top of that, due to the aftermath of the Middle East war,
airfares and overall travel costs have increased,
leading to a further burden on total spectator expenses.
Hotel Industry "Below Expectations"... FIFA "Demand Is Sufficient"
Hotel Industry: "Below Expectations" · FIFA: "Unprecedented Demand"
Hotel Industry Perspective
Below expectations, but still a chance to recover
Host countries and FIFA need to make the spectator environment more welcoming
VS
FIFA Perspective
Over 5 million tickets sold already, confirming unprecedented demand
Continuously discussing the situation with hotel officials
The American Hotel & Lodging Association explained that a combination of factors
has resulted in lower-than-expected performance,
but there is still an opportunity for recovery.
They emphasized that the host countries and FIFA should create a more welcoming environment
to make it easier for fans to visit and attend matches.
On the other hand, FIFA President Gianni Infantino dismissed concerns over a lack of popularity.
He said he is continuously discussing the situation with hotel officials,
and pointed out that more than 5 million tickets have already been sold,
demonstrating unprecedented demand.
Just How Much Bigger Is This World Cup?
2026 North and Central America World Cup
48 Countries Participating
Total of 104 Matches
Opening Match
June 11
Mexico City
Final
July 19
New Jersey
The 2026 North and Central America World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
The number of participating countries has increased to 48, and there will be a total of 104 matches.
The opening match is scheduled for June 11 in Mexico City (local time), and the final will take place on July 19 in New Jersey, United States.
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