Interview
Carlos Cordeiro on the Legacy of the FIFA World Cup 2026
- The 2026 FIFA World Cup will span 39 days across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches, positioning it as the largest sporting event in history.
- U.S. GDP is projected to gain approximately $20 billion, driven by 7 to 8 million tourists navigating visa regulations and generating revenue through travel, accommodation, and retail.
- FIFA revenue for the current cycle is expected to reach $14 billion, a figure double that of the previous cycle, while tournament expenses, including stadium renovations and logistics, are forecast to total $4 billion.
- Approximately one-third of global federations are expected to have their entire budgets for development and training covered by FIFA, with the tournament's financial model designed to fund 47 months of operations following the event.
- The event anticipates a cumulative global TV audience of 6 billion, with the final alone reaching 2.5 billion, significantly surpassing previous benchmarks like the Super Bowl.
- Summer soccer engagement is expected to surge, particularly contingent on the U.S. men's team performing well, with the national squad projected to include both European-based and MLS players.
- Long-term expectations include the U.S. men's team reaching the final four by the next World Cup and a generational shift where Lionel Messi emerges as a U.S.-based star within 10 to 20 years.
- Strategic goals involve expanding access to underserved communities to offset the sport's high costs, aiming to grow the game's social, cultural, and citizenship benefits in the U.S. and globally.
- Unusual teams are predicted to achieve notable success, with nations like Morocco expected to produce surprising results alongside the financial transition toward ensuring funds support development through compliance.