Hotels have a big World Cup problem: Bookings are running far below projections
With the 2026 World Cup six weeks away, hotels in most host cities are seeing bookings significantly below projections, particularly due to fewer international travelers and cancellations by FIFA. Despite over 5 million tickets sold, demand has not translated into strong hotel occupancy, with some cities like Kansas City performing worse than a typical summer. Factors such as visa delays, high costs, and a strong U.S. dollar are deterring overseas visitors, though Miami and Atlanta report better-than-expected booking trends.
- ▪Hotels in most 2026 World Cup host cities are experiencing bookings far below initial projections, according to a survey by the American Hotel and Lodging Association.
- ▪FIFA cancellations and fewer international travelers are major contributors to the weak hotel demand, despite over 5 million tournament tickets sold.
- ▪The strong U.S. dollar, lengthy visa wait times, and concerns about entry processing are discouraging international visitors from traveling to the U.S. for the event.
- ▪Miami and Atlanta are exceptions, with about 55% and 50% of surveyed hotels respectively reporting bookings in line with or above expectations.
- ▪The U.S. hotel industry had anticipated a surge in visitors due to both the World Cup and the nation's 250th anniversary celebrations.
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Hotels have a big World Cup problem: Bookings are running far below projections May 4, 20265:56 PM ET By Rafael Nam General view of Arrowhead Stadium, in Kansas City, Missouri, which will be hosting some of the World Cup matches this summer. Jamie Squire/Getty Images North America hide caption toggle caption Jamie Squire/Getty Images North America With only six weeks to go before the start of the World Cup, hotels at most of the cities hosting the tournament are facing a major problem: Bookings are running far below what they had expected. 2026 World Cup: North America These fans are boycotting the World Cup.
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