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A survey by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) released on May 6, 2026, shows U.S. hotel reservations tied to the FIFA World Cup are tracking well below industry forecasts with roughly 80% of respondents reporting bookings behind initial expectations.
Hoteliers cited visa barriers, geopolitical concerns, cancelled FIFA room blocks and high ticket and travel costs as primary reasons.
Specific markets report sharp shortfalls: Kansas City (85-90% of hotels below normal summer levels) and Boston, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Seattle (around 80% lagging). Miami and Atlanta are outperforming peers, with roughly half of hotels meeting or exceeding expectations.
Analysts and industry groups now question earlier projections of a $30.5 billion economic boost to host markets; some operators are pausing World Cup–specific investments.
FIFA has defended its room-release practices and highlighted strong global ticket sales.
The tournament opens June 11 in Mexico City and concludes July 19 in New Jersey, leaving a limited window for a late booking pickup.







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