Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi has expressed his anticipation for an "extraordinary" FIFA World Cup in 2026, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Speaking to reporters ahead of the 2025 MLS Cup final, Messi conveyed his surprise at the growing passion for soccer in the United States and Canada.
"Well, although I already knew it, especially about Mexico, as I said before, I was a little more surprised about the passion that exists for soccer in the United States and in Canada," Messi stated. He also noted the significant growth in the number of fans who enjoy the game and are passionate about their teams.
Messi believes the United States is well-equipped to host the most important event in soccer, expecting an "extraordinary" experience due to the country's experience in hosting major events. "And then talking about the organization in the United States, both I and the people, I believe, expect something extraordinary because [in the U.S.] they are used to doing big events and this is the most important event in soccer and I believe that they are going to be up to the task so that people can come and enjoy everything,” Messi said.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup final is scheduled to be held at MetLife Stadium on July 19, 2026. The tournament will be expanded to 48 teams and will take place across 16 stadiums in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The United States will host matches in 11 cities: Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco Bay Area, and Seattle.
The USA Men's National Team's final march towards the 2026 FIFA World Cup is set, with confirmed cities and venues for their last pre-tournament matches. Atlanta will host two matches against Belgium and Portugal at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The USMNT will also face an opponent to be determined in Charlotte, N.C., and Germany in Chicago.
The White House has established a task force dedicated to coordinating federal efforts in support of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 and the FIFA World Cup 2026. This task force aims to ensure the successful hosting of world-class international events that reflect the values, security, and hospitality of the United States.
The 1994 World Cup, which was also hosted in the U.S., saw a record-setting 3,587,538 spectators and proved to be a pivotal moment in sporting history for America. Major League Soccer (MLS) was created two years after the event, and soccer culture has grown immensely in the U.S. since.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup and FIFA Club World Cup 2025 are projected to generate significant economic impact in the U.S., including $47.6 billion in gross output, $26.8 billion in GDP, $10.2 billion in social benefits, and $5.3 billion in government revenues. These tournaments are also expected to create over 290,000 jobs across the U.S.
While Messi hasn't confirmed whether he will participate in his sixth World Cup, he stated that playing in the United States would make it easier for him to consider playing in the tournament. He also mentioned regular conversations with Argentine national team coach Lionel Scaloni about his potential role.
At the World Cup draw on December 5, 2025, it was determined that Argentina and Lionel Messi will begin their title defense against Algeria. The U.S. will open against Paraguay.
