By Gabriel Lopez
In a groundbreaking announcement that has soccer fans and the community buzzing, Kansas City has been selected to host six matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including a highly coveted quarterfinal game. The news highlights Kansas City’s emergence as an international hub for sporting events on a global stage. It also marks a historic moment for the city and its passionate soccer community.
Mayor Quinton Lucas expressed his enthusiasm and Kansas City’s readiness to welcome the world, saying, “FIFA’s selection of Kansas City as a World Cup Host City—and today’s announcement that Kansas City will host six World Cup 2026 matches, including a quarterfinal—highlights to the world what our community already knew: Kansas City is the place to be.” Lucas’s statement reflects a city that is rapidly evolving, displaying advancements such as a new world-class airport terminal and pioneering with the construction of the first stadium in the world specifically built for a professional women’s sports team.
The tournament’s match schedule revealed that Kansas City will host four group-stage matches on June 16, June 20, June 25, and June 27, along with a Round of 32 match on July 3 followed by a quarterfinal match on July 11. These games will be held at the iconic Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Kansas City Chiefs. The stadium is set to undergo renovations to comply with FIFA’s specifications, ensuring a world-class experience for both players and fans.
Katherine Holland, Executive Director of KC2026, highlighted the significance of this opportunity for Kansas City, stating, “As the Heart of America, Kansas City is thrilled to have the opportunity to host a quarterfinal match and we look forward to creating an unparalleled fan experience for visitors from around the world.”
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is not just the largest sporting event in the world; it is a celebration of unity, diversity, and the greatest soccer talent in the world. This event is a unique opportunity to put Kansas City on the international map, attracting visitors from around the globe while generating positive economic and cultural activity for the region.
As Kansas City prepares to host these historic matches, the opportunity for organizations and businesses to engage with a global audience has never been greater. Segura Marketing is launching a specialized World Cup Workshop aimed at equipping brands, organizations, and services with the tools to effectively market themselves in the lead-up to and during the World Cup. Recognizing the significant impact of the Hispanic market (one of the tournament’s largest audiences), this workshop is designed to help businesses engage with fans and consumers through culturally relevant marketing strategies. “Segura Marketing’s expertise will help participants boost their visibility and engage a global audience, using the excitement of the World Cup to drive lasting brand growth and recognition. Join us in making the most of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase your brand on the world stage.