In the first of a new series of dispatches, fans in the 16 host cities of the 2026 World Cup share their hopes and fears before the tournament. The event will feature 104 matches across Canada, Mexico, and the USA, from Vancouver to Mexico City and San Francisco to Boston. Here, correspondents from each city give their initial thoughts.
Atlanta
Kyle from Atlanta expresses disappointment: "I'm much less excited than in 1994. It feels like an event for the rich now. It would cost $2,000 for my family to attend a group stage match." He hopes FIFA loses money and that the expanded format backfires, but expects half-empty stadiums until the knockout stages.
Boston
David Achenbach says: "With so much going on, I find it hard to generate enthusiasm. Tickets are outrageously overpriced. I won't attend games but look forward to international visitors at my workplace." He hopes for good football and no political agenda, referencing Donald Trump.
Dallas
Andrew from Dallas notes: "I was excited until ticket prices came out. The buildup has been muted. I hope for an incident-free tournament and great games, but expectations are low."
Guadalajara
Heather Chambers voices anti-US sentiment: "Ticket prices are ridiculous given local wages. There is growing anti-US feeling and concern about visa bans. I hope games in the US have minimal crowds."
Houston
Ian Sherman says: "My enthusiasm has been dampened by ticket prices. Nosebleed seats for Saudi Arabia vs Cape Verde cost over $200. I'll probably pay over the odds for England's game in Dallas."
Kansas City
Eric Wahl, brother of late journalist Grant Wahl, states: "I'm proud but concerned about the nation's state, ticket prices, and gun violence. I hope our city shows well and visitors have a safe, amazing experience."
Los Angeles
Walid from LA says: "I'm excited but conflicted due to anti-immigrant politics and war. FIFA is pricing out true fans. I hope the tournament is accessible and visitors feel welcome."
Mexico City
Francisco Fontano Patán criticizes: "Mexico gets only 13 of 104 matches. It's insulting. The Trump administration makes the US a terrible host. Ticket prices are abusive. I hope stadiums are empty."
Miami
Geoff Willerton says: "I'm excited but don't know anyone going to games due to cost. There's not much buzz. I hope it goes smoothly."
Monterrey
Jose Galindo says: "Most people can't afford tickets. This tournament feels distant. I hope Mexico's team does well and the event brings positive economic effects."
New York/New Jersey
Parker notes: "Like most big events, it will be largely ignored. I'm excited to attend Australia games elsewhere but think it will be a 'nothing burger' in NYC."
Philadelphia
James Powell says: "My interest declined due to ticket prices and politics. I'm in two minds: half wants to enjoy games, half wants to see FIFA fail."
San Francisco
Ali expresses frustration: "The party I thought would descend isn't coming. Ticket prices are too high. Organizers prioritize sponsors over fans. It's heartbreaking."
Seattle
Roger Paul Probert-Baker says: "My family is super-excited. We applied to volunteer. Seattle is sports-oriented. I hope fans have a great time and see what a great place Seattle is."
Toronto
Peter Nazir Faiz says: "Toronto is unique with all nations represented. The World Cup was made for this city. I hope all games are moved to Canada and Mexico!"
Vancouver
Ian Holliday says: "I'm not excited due to FIFA, the tournament's size, and cost. I hope no one gets shot in the US. I don't have confidence in authorities to keep fans safe."
