2026 North and Central America World Cup, just 365 days away – Checking the preparation status

2026년 북미 월드컵이 이제 단 1년 앞으로 다가왔습니다. 이번 월드컵은 멕시코시티의 에스타디오 아즈텍에서 2026년 6월 11일에 시작되며, 미국, 캐나다, 멕시코가 함께 개최하는 역사적인 자리입니다. 총 48개 국가가 5주간의 열전을 펼치는 이번 대회는 그 규모에서 전례가 없는 사건으로, 각 도시와 조직 위원회는 세계의 이목 속에서 마지막 준비를 서두르고 있습니다. 이제 구체적인 방법을 아래에서 확인해보도록 하겠습니다.

The North American World Cup, which will kick off on June 11, 2026, at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, is now just one year away. The three countries—United States, Canada, and Mexico—are co-hosting the event, with a total of 48 countries competing for five weeks, marking the largest scale in history. Each city and organizing committee is ramping up final preparations under the watchful eyes of the world.

City-Specific Infrastructure and Stadium Preparation Status

Iconic stadiums, such as Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, are already prepared to accommodate 100,000 spectators.

Major infrastructure upgrades are underway in cities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Kansas City Arrowhead Stadium: Seats are being removed to widen the field.

Atlanta Mercedes-Benz Stadium: Lighting is being replaced, and natural grass is being installed.

Each city is investing approximately $150 million (about 200 billion won) for comprehensive renovations of stadiums, transportation, and public facilities.

Economic Impact and FIFA’s Expectations

FIFA anticipates approximately $9 billion (about 12 trillion won) in revenue from this World Cup, with the total economic impact across the three countries projected to be $40 billion (about 54 trillion won).

Diverse revenue sources, including broadcasting rights, ticketing, hospitality, and marketing rights, are being secured.

For the first time, FIFA has allowed the sale of local commercial rights in each host city.

Fan Services, Transportation, and Safety Measures

Preparations are underway to maximize fan experiences through Fan Fests, events around stadiums, and expanded transportation networks.

Public transportation systems, including buses and subways, are being upgraded, and safety measures are being enhanced.

Each city is checking security and emergency systems to ensure fans can enjoy the event safely.

Local Organizing Committees and FIFA’s Commitment

Each city organizing committee emphasizes “purpose and urgency” in their preparations.

With a sense of responsibility that “the whole world is watching,” final checks are being conducted across all areas, including infrastructure, services, and safety.

The 2026 North American World Cup is approaching as a global festival that will transform not just a sports event but entire cities and continents. With just one year remaining, the North American continent is entering its final preparations to become the center of world soccer.