Low hotel bookings in US raise concerns for World Cup hospitality industry
Al Jazeera English
A new AHLA survey reveals that 80% of hotels in 11 U.S. host cities for the 2026 World Cup have fewer bookings than expected, citing visa issues and geopolitical concerns. The findings underscore challenges as the U.S. co-hosts the tournament with Mexico and Canada.
Just five weeks before the 2026 World Cup kicks off, the U.S. hotel industry is facing a grim reality as tournament-related bookings fall far short of expectations, according to a report from the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA).
The survey results, released Monday (May 5), show that 80% of hotels in 11 U.S. metropolitan areas hosting World Cup matches — from New York to Los Angeles — reported lower bookings than initially forecast.
About 65% of respondents cited visa barriers and broader geopolitical concerns as the main reasons for the drop in demand.
“Many factors have tempered initial optimism, even though indicators suggest significant opportunities still lie ahead,” said AHLA President Rosanna Maietta. “To fully realize that potential, the U.S. and FIFA must ensure a welcoming and seamless experience for international visitors.”
The U.S. is co-hosting the tournament with Mexico and Canada, with the opening match on June 11 in Mexico City and the final on July 19 in New Jersey.
U.S. President Donald Trump has frequently touted the country’s role as host for the centerpiece of world football, but he has also launched a campaign to tighten visas for travelers to the U.S. The Trump administration has assured FIFA that it will facilitate entry for ticket holders, but all visa applications still undergo rigorous screening.
Fan groups have also expressed concerns about high ticket prices, black-market markups, and the travel costs associated with attending matches.
The AHLA survey, released as part of the “2026 World Cup Hotel Outlook,” paints a gloomy picture for the industry. In Kansas City, bookings are so low they fall below the typical level for June and July. In Boston, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Seattle, many respondents described the tournament as a “non-event.”
Hotel owners also reported that FIFA’s initial block bookings, followed by numerous cancellations, “created an early artificial signal of demand.”
