Why did Chicago decide not to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

Chicago authorities were unconvinced the event would generate significant profits for the city and were unable to negotiate FIFA's "demands" in the hosting contract.

What are some of the high costs associated with hosting the World Cup?

Upgrading stadiums, such as the $37 million spent on MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, and managing security and safety for the large-scale event can be very expensive for host cities.

How have other host cities reacted to Chicago's decision?

Some host cities have reportedly encountered similar challenges with FIFA's contract terms and quietly wish they had followed Chicago's lead in opting out of hosting the 2026 World Cup.

Home / Sports / Chicago Opts Out of 2026 World Cup Amid Financial Risks

Chicago Opts Out of 2026 World Cup Amid Financial Risks

7 Nov

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Summary

Chicago authorities fear hosting World Cup may incur debt
FIFA's "demands" rather than "requests" leave cities with no negotiating power
Costs of hosting the World Cup can be significant, e.g., $37M for MetLife Stadium

Chicago Opts Out of 2026 World Cup Amid Financial Risks

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, one major U.S. city has opted out of hosting any matches - Chicago. Authorities in the third-largest city in the country were not convinced that the potential economic benefits of hosting the event would outweigh the financial risks.

According to Kara Bachman, the executive director of the Chicago Sport Commission, FIFA's "demands" rather than "requests" left the city with no power to negotiate the hosting contract. Bachman also claimed she was unable to speak directly with FIFA officials, which she described as a "red flag." Other host cities have reportedly encountered similar challenges and quietly wish they had taken Chicago's stance.

The costs of hosting the World Cup can be significant, as evidenced by the $37 million spent upgrading MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, the venue for the final. Additionally, the state of New Jersey will spend $65 million on travel security for the event. These expenses, along with the need to manage "safety, security and protection" for such a large-scale competition, have led some cities to question whether hosting the World Cup is truly worth it.