WILLEMSTAD – With less than three months to go before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, concerns are mounting over attendance in the United States, as rising costs, stricter border policies, and geopolitical tensions appear to be discouraging international visitors.
Tour operators and airlines report that fans from Europe, South America, and Asia are increasingly reconsidering their travel plans. Many are opting instead to attend matches in Canada and Mexico, the other host countries, where travel conditions are perceived as more accessible and affordable.
One of the main deterrents is the sharp increase in accommodation prices in U.S. host cities. Hotel rates have surged dramatically, with nightly prices ranging between $800 and $1,500, and in some cases even higher. For many supporters, these costs make attending matches in the United States financially unfeasible.
Additional travel barriers are also contributing to the decline in expected visitor numbers. New entry requirements, including stricter border controls and a reported visa fee of up to $250 for certain travelers, have added complexity and cost to the process. There are also concerns that fans from some participating countries may face restrictions or be denied entry altogether.
At the same time, the United States is experiencing a broader slowdown in international travel, driven in part by uncertainty surrounding immigration procedures and capacity challenges at major airports.
Domestic issues are also raising red flags. A partial government shutdown has led to staffing shortages at key security agencies, including airport screening services. According to U.S. transportation security officials, these shortages could pose significant challenges for managing the expected influx of travelers during the tournament if not resolved in time.
The combination of high costs, geopolitical uncertainty, and logistical hurdles is putting pressure on initial expectations for the World Cup in the United States. What was anticipated to be a major global sporting event and economic boost is now facing the risk that both visitor numbers and tourism revenues may fall short of projections.