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World Cup excitement stalls in host cities
Hotels across US World Cup venues report weaker bookings than last summer, defying years of buildup. Industry leaders cite high costs, visa delays, and geopolitical tensions as key factors.
Hoteliers express frustration
Deidre Mathis, owner of Houston's Wanderstay Boutique Hotel, said her property stands at 45% capacity for tournament dates-down from 70% a year ago. Located a mile from the fan zone and near the stadium, the hotel had anticipated a surge in guests.
"We were sold this idea that the World Cup would be massive," Mathis told the BBC. "When February, March, and April rolled by with empty calendars, we were left baffled."
She blamed a mix of factors: ongoing immigration enforcement raids, inflation linked to the US-Israel conflict, and steep ticket prices. Even former President Donald Trump, a vocal World Cup supporter, called the $32,970 final tickets "unrealistic," while resale listings topped $2 million.
Industry-wide disappointment
The American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) found 80% of hotels in host cities reporting lower demand than expected. Many described the event as a "non-event," with bookings trailing typical summer levels.
AHLA CEO Rosanna Maietta attributed the sluggish response partly to the Iran conflict but suggested fans may be waiting to confirm team schedules before reserving rooms.
Airbnb, however, called the tournament "the biggest hosting event in its history," contrasting sharply with traditional lodging trends.
Fans weigh costs against passion
Hamish Husband, traveling from Scotland to support his team, plans to spend up to £10,000 despite calling FIFA's ticket prices "scandalous." He noted that Mexican locals on average wages couldn't afford games, praising Canada's efforts to curb resale markups.
"There's no fairness in football anymore. $1,000 for Scotland vs. Haiti? That's outrageous."
Hamish Husband, Association of Tartan Army Clubs
Last-minute hopes persist
Stephen Jenkins, manager of Kansas City's Fontaine Hotel, said bookings matched last year's pace but fell short of expectations. He saw a minor uptick after the fixture schedule released and remains optimistic about the fan festival's impact.
"We're pulling out all the stops-hosting a 'Culinary Cup' with themed meals-but even Messi hasn't matched Taylor Swift's draw," Jenkins said, referencing the pop star's 2023 sellout tour.
Atlanta's InterContinental Buckhead also reported lower-than-expected inquiries but anticipates a late surge. General manager Manuel Deisen said enthusiasm remains high, with plans to screen games and host football-themed events.
FIFA defends demand, US eases visa rules
FIFA stated ticket sales exceeded five million, calling demand "unprecedented." A spokesman dismissed overpricing claims, noting tickets started at $60 and higher prices aimed to deter resale profiteering.
The White House launched a World Cup taskforce to streamline preparations, including waiving a $15,000 visa deposit for fans from 50 countries if they hold match tickets.
