World Cup
Kansas City

Why Kansas City Was Selected as a World Cup Host City

Despite being the smallest of the 16 host cities, Kansas City's selection for the 2026 FIFA World Cup reflects its exceptional qualifications and deep soccer heritage. The competitive bid process, which began in 2017 with 44 candidate cities, recognized Kansas City's unique combination of world-class infrastructure, passionate soccer culture, and central geographic location as ideal for hosting the world's largest sporting event.

Arrowhead Stadium, which opened in 1972 and underwent an $800 million renovation, offers a distinctive elliptical bowl design with three-tiered stands that create an acoustically perfect environment for crowd noise. The venue's record-breaking sound levels—reaching 142.2 decibels in 2014—demonstrate the intensity Kansas City fans bring to major sporting events. This atmosphere, combined with the stadium's 76,416 capacity and recent facility upgrades, provides an optimal setting for World Cup football.

The Kansas City region demonstrated capacity to accommodate the tournament by proving access to 55,000 hotel rooms within a two-and-a-half-hour radius and securing commitments from 6,000 volunteers. The city's central location makes it easily accessible from across North America, while the new single terminal at Kansas City International Airport enhances international connectivity. Enhanced infrastructure including an expanded KC Streetcar line connecting to Midtown, Westport, and the Country Club Plaza will facilitate fan movement throughout the city during the tournament.

Perhaps most importantly, Kansas City's soccer credentials run deeper than many larger metropolitan areas. The late Lamar Hunt, owner of the Kansas City Chiefs, was a founding investor in Major League Soccer following the 1994 World Cup, owning both the original Kansas City Wiz franchise and Columbus Crew. Sporting Kansas City, which evolved from the Wiz, plays at state-of-the-art Children's Mercy Park, while the new Kansas City Current stadium represents the first stadium purpose-built for a women's professional team. This authentic soccer culture, combined with the region's renowned Midwestern hospitality, convinced FIFA that Kansas City could deliver an exceptional World Cup experience.

Arrowhead Stadium: From NFL Icon to World Cup Venue

GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium stands as one of the most storied venues in American sports, serving as home to the Kansas City Chiefs since opening in 1972. The stadium's distinctive architecture features an elliptical bowl with semi-circular cutouts on opposite sides to accommodate oval video screens—a unique design not replicated anywhere else in the world. The venue's three-story stands, maintained in the Chiefs' signature red, surround the playing field to create an intimate yet massive atmosphere.

For the 2026 World Cup, Arrowhead will undergo specific modifications to meet FIFA's international standards. These adaptations include pitch surface enhancements, seating improvements, upgraded accessibility features, and advanced technology and security systems. The current NorthBridge Bermudagrass turf, optimal for Kansas City's climate, will be evaluated to ensure it meets World Cup specifications. FIFA's requirement for neutral venue naming means the stadium will be called "Kansas City Stadium" during the tournament, temporarily setting aside commercial naming rights.

The venue's location at the Truman Sports Complex in Jackson County, Missouri, provides ample space for the fan experiences and logistics required for World Cup operations. While primarily known for hosting NFL games, Arrowhead has successfully accommodated soccer, including hosting matches during the 2024 Copa América when the United States faced Uruguay. The stadium's experience managing international football, combined with its reputation as one of the loudest and most intimidating venues in sports, positions it perfectly for the intense atmosphere of World Cup competition.

Stadium upgrades extend beyond game-day requirements to encompass the entire fan journey. Enhanced concession offerings will reflect Kansas City's famous culinary scene, particularly its legendary barbecue tradition. Multiple restroom facilities distributed throughout the venue minimize wait times, while high-definition video boards ensure optimal viewing from any seat. The venue's three-tiered design, with hospitality suites occupying the middle tier, provides diverse viewing experiences for different ticket holders while maintaining excellent sightlines throughout the stadium.

Understanding the 48-Team Tournament Coming to Kansas City

The 2026 FIFA World Cup introduces revolutionary changes to the tournament format, expanding from 32 to 48 teams and increasing total matches from 64 to 104 over 39 days. This expansion provides unprecedented opportunities for nations across all six continental confederations to participate, with 16 additional qualifying spots distributed globally. For the first time, Oceania receives a guaranteed berth, ensuring all continents have representation at football's biggest tournament.

The new structure features 12 groups of four teams, with each nation playing three group-stage matches. The top two teams from each group automatically advance to the knockout rounds, joined by the eight best third-place finishers across all groups. This creates a 32-team knockout stage—a new addition to World Cup history—beginning with a Round of 32, followed by the traditional Round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals, and final. Teams reaching the championship match will play eight games total instead of the previous seven.

For Kansas City specifically, the six scheduled matches span the tournament's full arc. The opening match on June 16 features teams from Group J, followed by Group E action on June 20, Group F on June 25, and another Group J match on June 27. After the group stage concludes, Kansas City hosts a Round of 32 match on July 3, then one of four quarterfinal matches on July 11—a do-or-die clash between teams fighting for a spot in the semifinals. This progression allows Kansas City fans to experience the tournament's evolution from group-stage intensity to knockout desperation.

The December 2025 draw in Washington, D.C., will determine which specific teams play in Kansas City. While the United States, as a host nation, will play its group stage matches on the West Coast in Los Angeles and Seattle, Kansas City will likely see top-tier teams from Europe, South America, Africa, and Asia competing on its stage. The expanded format increases chances for dramatic upsets and Cinderella runs from smaller nations, potentially bringing unexpected matchups and compelling stories to Arrowhead Stadium throughout the tournament.

Getting to Arrowhead Stadium for World Cup Matches

Accessing Arrowhead Stadium for World Cup matches requires advance planning, as the venue is located approximately 10 miles east of downtown Kansas City at the Truman Sports Complex. The primary approach for most attendees involves personal vehicles, with the stadium complex offering extensive parking facilities designed to handle major event crowds. However, given the international nature of the World Cup and expected attendance from visitors unfamiliar with the area, alternative transportation options will be essential.

Kansas City is investing in enhanced public transportation infrastructure specifically for World Cup operations. The expanded KC Streetcar network will connect downtown Kansas City to key destinations including Midtown, Westport, and the Country Club Plaza, providing free transportation within the extended system. While the streetcar doesn't directly serve the stadium, it facilitates movement to transit hubs where dedicated shuttle services will operate on match days. KC2026 organizers announced plans for a regional transit network connecting major hotels, entertainment districts, and the stadium.

For international visitors arriving via Kansas City International Airport, the new single terminal opened in 2023 streamlines the arrival experience. The airport is located approximately 25 miles northwest of Arrowhead Stadium, roughly a 30-minute drive without traffic. Rental cars, ride-sharing services, and dedicated airport shuttles will provide connections to hotels throughout the Kansas City area. Many hotels near the stadium offer shuttle services for major events, and these will likely be expanded for World Cup operations.

Those driving to the stadium should expect enhanced traffic management on match days, with designated routes and law enforcement presence to facilitate crowd movement. Interstate 70 and Interstate 435 provide primary highway access, with multiple exits serving the Truman Sports Complex. Arriving at least three hours before kickoff is recommended to navigate parking, security screening, and stadium entry procedures. The parking lots typically open several hours before events, allowing tailgating opportunities—a Kansas City tradition that international visitors can experience as part of American sports culture.

Kansas City's Unique World Cup Fan Experience

Beyond the matches themselves, Kansas City plans extensive fan experiences throughout the city during the World Cup. Fan festivals at iconic locations including the National WWI Museum and Memorial, Union Station, and The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art will offer cultural programming, viewing parties for matches played in other cities, and interactive exhibits celebrating global football culture. These free events allow both ticket holders and non-ticket holding visitors to participate in the World Cup atmosphere.

Kansas City's diverse neighborhoods will host viewing parties and celebrations representing various competing nations. The city's multicultural communities, combined with its reputation for hospitality, create an authentic environment for international visitors. The Power & Light District in downtown Kansas City, a vibrant entertainment area with restaurants, bars, and outdoor gathering spaces, will serve as a central meeting point for fans. KC Live!, the outdoor plaza within the district, hosted the celebration when Kansas City was announced as a host city and will likely be a focal point during the tournament.

Visitors should explore Kansas City's famous barbecue scene, with legendary spots including Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que, Arthur Bryant's, and Gates Bar-B-Q offering authentic regional cuisine. The city's jazz heritage, celebrated in the historic 18th & Vine Jazz District, provides evening entertainment options for World Cup visitors. The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, located in the same district, offers insights into American sports history. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, with free admission and world-class collections, provides cultural experiences during non-match days.

The Kansas City Current's new stadium along the Berkley Riverfront represents another soccer destination for fans to visit during their stay. As the first stadium purpose-built for a women's professional team in the United States, it symbolizes Kansas City's commitment to growing soccer at all levels. Tours and potential matches during the World Cup period offer additional football experiences. Sporting Kansas City's Children's Mercy Park, which has hosted numerous U.S. Men's National Team matches and international friendlies, may host fan events or exhibition matches as well.

How to Maximize Your Kansas City World Cup Experience

Making the most of your World Cup visit to Kansas City requires balancing match attendance with exploration of the city's unique offerings. Here's how to create memorable experiences beyond the 90 minutes of football:

Book accommodations strategically. Hotels near Arrowhead Stadium offer convenience but limited dining and entertainment options. Consider staying in downtown Kansas City, the Country Club Plaza district, or the Crossroads Arts District for walkable access to restaurants, nightlife, and cultural attractions. The expanded KC Streetcar system and planned shuttle services will connect these areas to the stadium. Reserve rooms as early as possible, as the city expects unprecedented demand.

Embrace Kansas City's culinary traditions. No visit is complete without experiencing authentic Kansas City barbecue—arrive early at popular spots as lines form quickly. Beyond BBQ, explore the city's surprising culinary diversity, from Mexican cuisine in the historic Westside neighborhood to international options in the Brookside district. The City Market, one of America's largest farmers markets, operates year-round and showcases local produce, specialty foods, and diverse vendors.

Plan your match-day timeline carefully. With enhanced security protocols and large crowds, arriving at least three hours before kickoff ensures time for parking, security screening, exploring the stadium concourse, and finding your seat. Arrowhead Stadium's tailgating culture begins hours before games—consider participating in this quintessentially American tradition if arriving early. Bring appropriate weather protection, as Kansas City summers can feature hot temperatures, sudden thunderstorms, or high humidity.

Experience Kansas City's cultural heritage. Visit the American Jazz Museum and Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in the 18th & Vine District to understand the city's significant contributions to American culture. The National WWI Museum and Memorial, one of the world's premier institutions dedicated to the Great War, offers profound historical perspectives. Art lovers shouldn't miss the Nelson-Atkins Museum's exceptional collections, including the iconic Shuttlecocks lawn sculptures. Union Station, beautifully restored, houses Science City and traveling exhibitions.

Frequently Asked Questions About World Cup Kansas City

How many World Cup matches will be played in Kansas City?

Kansas City will host six FIFA World Cup 2026 matches at Arrowhead Stadium between June 16 and July 11. This includes four group stage matches featuring teams from Groups E, F, and J, one Round of 32 knockout match, and one quarterfinal match. The quarterfinal on July 11 represents one of four matches worldwide at that stage, where eight teams compete for four semifinal spots. Kansas City is one of 16 host cities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico selected to stage matches during this historic 48-team, 104-match tournament.

Why is Kansas City called the Soccer Capital of America?

Kansas City earned the title Soccer Capital of America through its deep soccer heritage and commitment to the sport at all levels. The late Lamar Hunt, owner of the Kansas City Chiefs, was a founding investor in Major League Soccer following the 1994 World Cup, establishing the Kansas City Wiz franchise that evolved into Sporting Kansas City. The city features world-class soccer facilities including Children's Mercy Park, which regularly hosts U.S. Men's National Team matches, and the groundbreaking new Kansas City Current stadium—the first purpose-built for a women's professional team. This infrastructure, combined with passionate fan support and youth development programs, establishes Kansas City's authentic soccer culture and credentials for hosting the World Cup.

What makes Arrowhead Stadium special for World Cup football?

Arrowhead Stadium holds the Guinness World Record as the loudest stadium in the world, reaching 142.2 decibels during an NFL game in 2014. This acoustic intensity, created by the venue's distinctive elliptical bowl design with three-tiered stands, will amplify World Cup atmosphere when 76,416 fans unite behind competing nations. The stadium has undergone an 800 million dollar renovation and successfully hosted international football during the 2024 Copa América. For the World Cup, the venue will be renamed Kansas City Stadium per FIFA requirements and will receive further upgrades to pitch surface, accessibility, technology, and security systems to meet international tournament standards.

Which teams will play at Arrowhead Stadium during the World Cup?

The specific national teams playing in Kansas City won't be determined until the official World Cup draw takes place on December 5, 2025, at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. The draw will assign the 48 qualified teams into 12 groups and allocate matches to host cities. Kansas City will host matches from Groups E, F, and J during the group stage, plus one Round of 32 match and one quarterfinal. While the United States will play its group stage matches on the West Coast in Los Angeles and Seattle, Kansas City can expect to see elite teams from Europe, South America, Africa, and Asia competing for a place in World Cup history.

How do I get tickets to World Cup matches in Kansas City?

World Cup tickets can be purchased through our verified resale marketplace, which connects fans with legitimate sellers offering authentic tickets at competitive prices. We are a highly-rated ticket broker with over 20 years of experience, the highest Trustpilot rating among ticket sellers, and comprehensive buyer protection policies. Our platform displays upfront pricing with no hidden fees and guarantees ticket authenticity through rigorous verification. FIFA's official primary ticketing operated through a lottery system beginning in September 2025, with group stage tickets starting at 60 dollars and prices increasing for knockout rounds. The resale market provides additional opportunities for fans who missed official sales or seek better seating options.

What is the best way to get to Arrowhead Stadium for World Cup matches?

The primary transportation method to Arrowhead Stadium involves driving, as the venue is located approximately 10 miles east of downtown Kansas City at the Truman Sports Complex. Interstate 70 and Interstate 435 provide highway access, with extensive parking available on-site. For World Cup matches, Kansas City is implementing enhanced public transportation including dedicated shuttle services from downtown hotels and major transit hubs. The expanded KC Streetcar network connects downtown to Midtown, Westport, and Country Club Plaza, with shuttle connections to the stadium. International visitors arriving at Kansas City International Airport can reach the stadium via rental car, ride-sharing, or dedicated shuttles—approximately a 30-minute drive covering 25 miles.

What can visitors do in Kansas City besides attending matches?

Kansas City offers diverse attractions beyond World Cup football, starting with its legendary barbecue scene featuring iconic restaurants like Joe's Kansas City, Arthur Bryant's, and Gates Bar-B-Q. The city's jazz heritage lives in the 18th and Vine Jazz District, home to the American Jazz Museum and Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. Cultural institutions include the world-class Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art with free admission, the National WWI Museum and Memorial, and restored Union Station housing Science City. Fan festivals at these venues during the World Cup will provide viewing parties, cultural programming, and interactive exhibits. The Power and Light District downtown offers restaurants, bars, and outdoor gathering spaces for match-day celebrations.

When are the Kansas City World Cup matches scheduled?

Kansas City will host World Cup matches on six dates spanning nearly a month of tournament action. The schedule begins with a Group J match on June 16, 2026, followed by Group E on June 20, Group F on June 25, another Group J match on June 27, the Round of 32 on July 3, and culminating with a quarterfinal on July 11. Match times are scheduled for 12:00, 15:00, 18:00, and 21:00 Central Time on various dates. The quarterfinal represents one of the tournament's most critical stages, where eight remaining teams battle for four semifinal spots, guaranteeing high-intensity football and likely featuring elite international competition as the field narrows toward crowning a world champion.

Is Kansas City really the smallest World Cup host city?

Yes, Kansas City is the smallest of the 16 host cities selected for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with a metropolitan population of approximately 2.3 million people. However, this designation doesn't diminish Kansas City's capabilities—the city demonstrated access to 55,000 hotel rooms within a two-and-a-half-hour radius and secured commitments from 6,000 volunteers to support tournament operations. Kansas City's central geographic location makes it easily accessible from across North America, while its compact urban core concentrates attractions, hotels, and entertainment in walkable districts. The city's selection over larger markets validates its authentic soccer culture, world-class infrastructure, and commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality and fan experiences.

What economic impact will the World Cup bring to Kansas City?

FIFA projects that hosting six World Cup matches will generate between 620 million and 650 million dollars in economic impact for the Kansas City region. This substantial boost comes from visitor spending on hotels, restaurants, retail, entertainment, and transportation during the tournament. The average international visitor is expected to stay in the United States for nine days, providing extended economic benefits beyond match days themselves. The tournament will create thousands of temporary jobs in hospitality, security, transportation, and event management. Long-term benefits include enhanced global visibility, improved infrastructure like the expanded streetcar system, and strengthened reputation as an international sports destination that can attract future major events.

Will there be security concerns at Arrowhead Stadium during the World Cup?

Security for World Cup matches will be significantly enhanced compared to typical sporting events, with FIFA working closely with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to ensure safety. Expect airport-style security screening with metal detectors, thorough bag checks, and restricted entry points at all stadium gates. Clear bag policies will limit what attendees can bring inside, and prohibited items include large bags, weapons, alcohol, and professional recording equipment beyond personal phones. Digital ticketing will be mandatory to prevent counterfeiting. Arriving at least three hours before kickoff allows adequate time for security procedures. These comprehensive measures are standard for major international sporting events and ensure the safest possible environment for fans from around the world.

Can I attend multiple matches in Kansas City during the tournament?

Absolutely! With six matches spread over nearly four weeks from June 16 to July 11, fans have multiple opportunities to experience World Cup football in Kansas City. Our marketplace offers tickets for all six matches, from group stage games through the knockout rounds and quarterfinal. Attending multiple matches allows you to see different teams, playing styles, and experience how tournament atmosphere intensifies as competition progresses. Consider combining earlier group stage matches at lower price points with the high-stakes quarterfinal for a comprehensive tournament experience. Extended stays also provide opportunities to explore Kansas City's attractions, barbecue culture, jazz heritage, and participate in fan festivals throughout the city.

What weather should I expect in Kansas City during the World Cup?

Kansas City in June and early July typically experiences warm to hot summer weather with temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to mid-90s Fahrenheit, though heat waves can push temperatures higher. Humidity levels can be substantial, making conditions feel warmer than actual temperatures. Afternoon thunderstorms are common during summer months and can appear quickly, bringing brief but intense rain, lightning, and occasionally hail. Arrowhead Stadium is an outdoor, uncovered venue, so fans should prepare for sun exposure during day matches and bring weather-appropriate clothing. Sunscreen, hats, and light-colored clothing are recommended, along with rain gear kept in clear bags meeting stadium policies. Evening matches offer cooler temperatures but can still be humid.

Are resale World Cup tickets safe to purchase for Kansas City matches?

Yes, when purchased from reputable verified marketplaces like ours that provide buyer protection and guarantee authenticity. We are a ticket broker with over 20 years of experience, the highest Trustpilot rating among ticket sellers, and comprehensive verification processes ensuring all tickets are legitimate. Our platform connects fans with trusted sellers, displays total upfront pricing with no hidden fees, and provides secure transaction processing with buyer protection guarantees. The secondary market serves a vital role connecting sellers who cannot attend with fans seeking tickets after official FIFA sales concluded. Always purchase from established platforms with verified seller programs and avoid individual sellers on social media or unverified websites where fraud risks are significantly higher.

What food options will be available at Arrowhead Stadium during World Cup matches?

Arrowhead Stadium will feature enhanced concession offerings during World Cup matches, reflecting both standard stadium fare and Kansas City's famous culinary traditions. Expect the stadium's legendary barbecue options to be prominently featured, showcasing the city's signature food to international visitors. Multiple concession stands distributed throughout the three-tiered venue offer diverse choices from traditional hot dogs and burgers to regional specialties. Beverage options include soft drinks, water, and likely beer given FIFA's typical stadium requirements. Concession prices at major sporting events typically exceed outside rates, so budget accordingly. Lines tend to be longest shortly before kickoff and at halftime, so visiting concessions during other periods minimizes wait times and ensures you don't miss crucial match action.

How does Kansas City's World Cup schedule compare to other host cities?

Kansas City's allocation of six matches ranks in the middle tier among the 16 host cities. Some venues like MetLife Stadium in New Jersey host eight matches including the final, while others host fewer. Kansas City's mix of four group stage matches, one Round of 32, and one quarterfinal provides a comprehensive tournament experience spanning from early-round diversity through high-stakes knockout drama. The quarterfinal on July 11 is particularly significant as one of only four matches at that stage worldwide, guaranteeing elite competition and dramatic football as eight remaining teams fight for semifinal berths. This schedule demonstrates FIFA's confidence in Kansas City's ability to deliver world-class experiences for both group stage atmosphere and critical knockout pressure.