Summary of Conversation on FIFA World Cup 2026
Nimko Pawson inquired about the FIFA World Cup 2026, starting June 11 at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City (Mexico vs. South Africa) and ending July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (final). Sab Guru clarified it's hosted across 16 stadiums in 11 US cities (e.g., Los Angeles' SoFi Stadium for US vs. Paraguay on June 12; Seattle's Lumen Field for US vs. Australia on June 19), plus sites in Mexico and Canada, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches.
Key Topics and Insights:
Tickets: Primary sales via FIFA (many sold out, especially US/group stages); secondary markets like SeatGeek/StubHub start at $400–$500 for group games, $3,000+ for final (up to $50,000 for premium). Hospitality packages offer VIP perks (premium seats, lounges, food) from $2,500 (group) to $15,000+ (finals), via official partners.[5][6]
Prioritizing Locations: Suggested LA as strong first stop for US opener, but Mexico City for historic opener; avoid locking into one state due to scattered schedule. Final confirmed in New Jersey.
Safety: US host cities generally safe with enhanced security; no states to avoid outright, but stick to urban cores, monitor advisories amid potential post-election tensions (e.g., Dallas, Philadelphia); prefer group travel.
Visa Process: No special FIFA visa—standard B-1/B-2 or ESTA (for eligible nationalities). Apply now via DS-160, with proof of ties/itinerary; backlogs expected.
Tourism/Add-ons: Build around 3–4 key matches; side activities include LA beaches/hiking, Seattle markets, Miami culture, Vegas/Niagara detours, or Mexico pyramids. Anchor in hubs like NY/Atlanta to manage logistics.
Important Conclusions and Final Advice: Commit to 3–4 anchor matches (e.g., US openers, final) early; prioritize visa/logistics over tickets; book flights/hotels soon amid inflation; skip hospitality unless seeking luxury—embrace fan vibes; build in rest days for 5-week immersion; stay flexible, safe in host cores, and monitor updates. Nimko thanked for the info.