The 2026 FIFA World Cup is being hosted in sixteen cities across North America, including Mexico, the United States, and Canada [1, 2, 3]. Mexican host cities include Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey, where games are scheduled from June 11 to July 19, 2026 [4].
Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca, a famed stadium that previously hosted World Cup finals, is among the venues [1, 2, 3]. Guadalajara marked the tournament by unveiling a statue of Pelé commemorating his 1970 World Cup heroics earlier this year [1, 2, 3].
Fans in Mexican cities carry strong soccer traditions, frequently gathering socially to watch matches. Local chefs highlight regional culinary identities during the competition, offering street food specialties in Mexico City and birria in Guadalajara [1, 2, 3, 4].
On the U.S. side, cities such as Miami, Houston, Dallas, Atlanta, Boston, and Seattle are among the hosts [1, 2, 3, 5]. Miami’s large Latin American population helps make the tournament feel like an extension of the city itself [1, 2, 3]. In Houston, visitors experience welcoming crowds and Texas barbecue culture, with Phil Noble noting, "The saying goes that everything is bigger in Texas, and that’s pretty much been my experience, from the huge servings of delicious Texas barbecue and the enormous six-lane highways to the massive welcome that has been given to all the visiting supporters by everyone in this city" [1].
Cities like Atlanta and Boston showcase their distinct local cuisines tied to the World Cup atmosphere [5].
Ivan Arias observed the growing camaraderie among fans, saying, "One of my favourite things to witness was the friendship that grew between Mexican and Colombian fans. They ended up attending each other's gatherings, matches and celebrations, and by the end it felt like they were supporting each other as much as their own teams" [1].
The tournament continues through July 19, with Mexican venues concluding their matches on that date [4].
