Representative ImageThe American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) has released a report indicating that anticipated demand for hotel bookings during the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the US is not meeting expectations. The report, based on surveys from hoteliers across 11 host cities, highlights that 80% of bookings are below initial forecasts. Key factors include visa barriers and geopolitical concerns affecting international travel, as well as FIFA room block cancellations and rising costs.
The report reveals that 65-70% of hoteliers cite visa issues and geopolitical concerns as significant barriers to international demand. Furthermore, FIFA's overcommitment to room blocks initially signalled high demand, but subsequent cancellations have led to recalibrated expectations. Only 25-30% of markets, particularly those with strong leisure demand or team base camps, are experiencing a notable increase in bookings.
Rosanna Maietta, President & CEO of AHLA, stated, “Hotels across host markets have spent years preparing for the World Cup, and whilst there is real excitement, the data points to a more nuanced outlook.” She emphasised the need for the US and FIFA to ensure a seamless experience for international travellers by avoiding unnecessary cost increases and discouraging local tax hikes.
The report also details specific market challenges: Kansas City and Los Angeles report bookings below expectations, whilst Miami and Atlanta are performing better due to strong air connectivity and diversified demand. However, Boston, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Seattle describe the tournament as a “non-event” due to weak international fan travel.
As hotels face fragmented demand and uncertainty, many are reconsidering investments in World Cup-specific initiatives. The AHLA urges consumers to book hotels now to avoid future cost increases
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