The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is anticipated to significantly boost soccer's growth across North America. According to FIFA, the tournament will feature 48 teams and 104 matches, with 60 matches in the U.S., 10 in Canada, and 10 in Mexico. This marks the first World Cup hosted by three nations and the first in North America since 1994.
Major League Soccer (MLS) has already seen a surge in popularity, with average attendance exceeding 22,000 per game in 2025, according to league data. The World Cup is expected to further increase interest, particularly in youth participation. A 2025 survey by the Sports & Fitness Industry Association found that soccer is now the second-most popular team sport among U.S. youth aged 6-12, behind only basketball.
Infrastructure investments are also underway. The U.S. is upgrading stadiums in 16 host cities, including new turf and expanded seating. Canada is building a new stadium in Toronto, while Mexico is renovating the iconic Estadio Azteca. These improvements are expected to leave a lasting legacy for professional and amateur soccer.
However, challenges remain, including ticket pricing and accessibility. FIFA has pledged to keep some tickets affordable, with prices starting at $40 for group-stage matches. The economic impact is projected to be substantial, with a 2024 study by the Boston Consulting Group estimating $5 billion in direct spending during the tournament.
