Houston is campaigning to land a coveted spot as a World Cup host city in 2026! With the 2026 FIFA World Cup slated to take place across the US, Canada, and Mexico, the organization of Fifa now has to choose the host cities out of the numerous urban areas available across North America. In the three years since it was announced that North America would host the 2026 World Cup, Houston is one of 17 cities vying to be one of the host cities in the final push ahead of FIFA’s big decision.
In addition to being named the “most diverse city in America“, another argument proposed by the President of Houston’s 2026 World Cup Bid Committee, Chris Canetti, is that Houston has also hosted more major sporting events since 2004 than other of the other potential cities including a couple of Super Bowls, the Final Four, and many major international soccer matches. Houston’s Official World Cup Bid Committee says that being chosen as a host for 6 games would be transformative for the city, with experts estimating a potential economic impact of $1.3 billion.
Mayor Sylvester Turner and his entire team are doing everything in their power to make World Cup 2026 happen in Houston.
Here are some of the things Houston is doing to get chosen as a host city for the World Cup 2026:
Excited to announce the launch of the @Hou2026WorldCup Soccer Innovation Institute. This initiative is a shining example of the innovative spirit of Houston and we look forward to showcasing this and much more during the @FIFAWorldCup visit in just 12 days!!⚽️ pic.twitter.com/nktSFPk5vM
— Houston Mayor’s Office (@houmayor) October 14, 2021
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo also made a video as part of the bidding process
The city has also invested in a soccer innovation institute to promote the game of soccer within the community.
We have a common goal – to advance the game of soccer globally using the #SpiritofHouston.
— Houston 2026 WorldCup (@Hou2026WorldCup) October 14, 2021
We are excited to bring innovative minds from all sectors of our city to create a united community investment and legacy with the Soccer Innovation Institute. #Houston2026 pic.twitter.com/X6vVPYNTEC
Houston’s Offical “Fitness Czar“, Samir Becic, who knows many prominent players and managers throughout the world is on board and supportive of the bid. Samir, who is European born, grew up with football (soccer), and would love to see some matches come to Houston!
Great job, @ChrisCanetti and @Hou2026WorldCup committee, for doing all the necessary preparations for this fantastic event for our city. Together with Mayor @SylvesterTurner and his team Houston 2026 World Cup is becoming a reality, and it will be a success!
— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) October 18, 2021
#Houston continues to be a city where our dreams can become our reality.
— Sylvester Turner (@SylvesterTurner) October 6, 2021
We embrace our diversity, remain innovative, and work to be resilient through any difficulties we face.
Let’s work together to show why @Hou2026WorldCup should come to our city. pic.twitter.com/ZQdN5h1FOS
Following an in-person visit from Fifa in Houston this month, their decision is expected in the next 6 months.
