How U.S. Cities Are Racing to Solve Transportation Challenges Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup less than a year away, American cities are rushing to strengthen transportation systems in preparation for a historic influx of visitors. The tournament, co‑hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, will bring millions of fans to 104 matches across 16 cities — creating one of the most complex transportation demands in sports history.

Organizers, transit agencies and federal officials are focused on ensuring fans can move efficiently from airports and hotels to stadiums, fan festivals and regional destinations. But the scale of the challenge — both in terms of volumes and infrastructure gaps — has pushed city leaders to innovate and adapt quickly.

Mass Transit Overhauls and New Bus Networks

Cities that will host matches are investing in expanded transit capacity. In Kansas City, planners unveiled the ConnectKC26 initiative — a coordinated coach and bus service that will link airports, stadiums and fan activity zones throughout the tournament period. The goal is to move crowds while minimizing disruption to daily commuters.

Similarly, Kansas City has been a pioneer in transportation planning, securing a fleet of 200 buses well ahead of many other host cities. These buses will supplement regular transit routes and are meant to serve the expected surge of visitors without overwhelming the local system.

Elsewhere, transit agencies are expanding rail and bus service schedules, increasing frequencies and coordinating across regional networks. While many host cities’ rail systems were not originally designed to carry the volume expected during World Cup match days, officials are working to boost capacity through additional services and temporary infrastructure upgrades.

Federal and Local Coordination

Federal support has also played a role. U.S. transportation officials have been engaged in planning efforts for more than a year, coordinating with agencies such as the Federal Aviation Administration and local transit providers to smooth travel by air, rail and road. Part of this effort includes planning additional flights, bolstered rail services and expanded bus networks in key markets.

Local governments are also adapting their transit strategies. In North Texas — a region hosting nine matches — planners have likened the period of the World Cup to nearly 40 consecutive days of rush‑hour traffic, prompting aggressive adjustments to transit operations around Dallas and Arlington.

Challenges Remain

Despite proactive measures, hurdles persist. Few U.S. host stadiums sit directly on heavy rail lines, unlike many venues in Europe where metro access is the norm, meaning a greater dependence on bus shuttle services and car alternatives. Many cities are also coordinating across state lines — a logistical and regulatory challenge as transit agencies juggle differing priorities and funding frameworks.