Low US hotel bookings paint grim hospitality picture at the World Cup
Summary
Hotel bookings in US cities hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup are much lower than expected, according to a survey from the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA). Issues like visa restrictions and global political concerns are reducing the number of international travelers, causing problems for the hotel industry ahead of the event.Key Facts
- The AHLA surveyed hotel members in 11 US cities hosting World Cup matches.
- 80% of respondents said bookings were below early predictions.
- About 65% pointed to visa difficulties and global politics as reasons for lower demand.
- The US is cohosting the World Cup with Mexico and Canada; matches start June 11 in Mexico City.
- President Donald Trump has promoted the US as a World Cup host but has also tightened visa policies.
- FIFA ticket holders will still face strict visa checks despite assurances from the Trump administration.
- Some hotel bookings by FIFA were cancelled, causing misleading early booking numbers.
- Cities like Kansas City saw bookings below normal summer levels, and some cities called the tournament a “non-event” so far.
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