Hotels across several host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are reporting weaker-than-expected bookings despite growing public excitement ahead of the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
In cities such as Houston, Miami, Kansas City and New York, World Cup advertising and merchandise have become increasingly visible as preparations intensify for the competition.
However, many hotel operators say the anticipated surge in reservations has yet to materialize.
According to the American Hotel and Lodging Association, a large number of hotels in host cities are currently recording lower booking levels compared to the same period last year.
Several hotel owners and managers told the BBC they expected significantly stronger demand months before the tournament begins.
Deidre Mathis, owner of the Wanderstay Boutique Hotel in Houston, said her establishment remains far below projected occupancy levels despite being located near fan zones and match venues.
She noted that the hotel is operating at around 45% capacity for the tournament period, compared with approximately 70% during the same period last year.
Mathis attributed the slow pace of bookings to several factors, including the political climate in the United States, immigration policies, rising living costs and the high price of World Cup tickets.
Ticket prices for the final at MetLife Stadium have reportedly reached tens of thousands of dollars, while some resale tickets have appeared online at even higher prices.
The hospitality industry also believes international uncertainty linked to tensions in the Middle East and the conflict involving Iran has affected travel decisions for some supporters.
Despite current concerns, many hotel operators remain hopeful that reservations will increase closer to the tournament.
Rosanna Maietta explained that some fans may still be waiting to confirm where their national teams will play before finalizing travel plans.
Meanwhile, accommodation platform Airbnb has described the upcoming World Cup as potentially the biggest hosting event in the company’s history.
Supporters planning to attend the competition have also expressed concerns about ticket costs.
Hamish Husband, who plans to travel from Scotland to support his national team, said expenses for accommodation and tickets could exceed £10,000.
He criticized what he described as extremely expensive match tickets, particularly for group-stage fixtures.
In Kansas City, Stephen Jenkins said bookings at the Fontaine Hotel remain similar to last year’s levels, despite expectations of a major tourism boost.
Local businesses are increasingly relying on fan festivals and football-themed activities to attract visitors during the tournament.
Some hotels are preparing special events, themed dining experiences and public screenings to capitalize on the World Cup atmosphere.
In Atlanta, Manuel Deisen also acknowledged that demand has been softer than expected but said enthusiasm surrounding the tournament continues to grow.
For its part, FIFA insists demand for the competition remains extremely strong.
The organization says more than five million tickets have already been sold and maintains that the tournament will attract global attention as the largest sporting event in the world.
US authorities have also introduced measures aimed at facilitating travel for international supporters, including visa-related exemptions for fans from several countries who possess valid match tickets.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup final is scheduled to take place in New Jersey on 19 July.
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