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HOW WILL THE 2026 WORLD CUP AFFECT LOCAL EMPLOYMENT?

The 2026 World Cup will not only be a celebration of football, but also a job engine. Hosting this mega-event in the United States, Mexico, and Canada will bring a flood of employment opportunities, from temporary stadium jobs to positions in hospitality, transportation, technology, and tourism. In this article, we explore the direct and indirect impact on local employment, with official statistics, case studies from past editions, the sectors that benefit most, and some interesting facts that demonstrate how football can boost the economy. Ready to see how a goal can also mean a job?

Jobs Before and During the World Cup


Construction, Logistics, Hospitality, and More


Since the official announcement of the 2026 World Cup, the three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—began generating jobs in various sectors. One of the first sectors to become active was construction: stadium renovations, airport improvements, transportation networks, and even new urban infrastructure. All of this requires local workers, engineers, architects, and suppliers.


During the operational phase, the number of temporary jobs skyrockets. It is estimated that more than 150,000 positions will be created across the three countries during the tournament. These jobs include event logistics, cleaning, catering, security, customer service, public transportation, and media production. Many of these jobs will be for young people, students, and temporary workers, with competitive salaries according to the local market.


  • FIFA estimates that the 2026 World Cup will generate $3.5 billion in direct economic activity

  • Each host city is expected to create between 3,000 and 7,000 temporary jobs

  • MetLife Stadium in New Jersey will employ more than 10,000 people during the final alone

  • Hotels and airlines hire extra staff up to a year in advance

  • In 2018, Russia generated 220,000 World Cup-related jobs


Sectors that benefit the most


Football + tourism + technology = employment


The 2026 World Cup doesn't just move the ball, it moves entire industries. One of the sectors with the greatest impact will be tourism: hotels, restaurants, travel agencies, and tour guides will experience an unprecedented boom. Host cities—such as Los Angeles, Mexico City, Vancouver, and New York—expect an increase of up to 25% in hotel occupancy during the tournament.


The technology sector also benefits. From companies that offer ticketing solutions to cybersecurity firms and streaming platforms, all need extra staff to meet the demand. This is in addition to the hiring of creatives, translators, sound technicians, camera operators, and community managers. Even the informal sector sees a significant increase in sales and economic activity.


  • Hospitality will grow by 15% in revenue in host cities

  • E-commerce and the sale of official merchandise generate thousands of indirect jobs

  • Telecommunications hires temporary technicians and installers

  • Public transport extends shifts and hires additional staff

  • Sports startups secure temporary contracts during the tournament


The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

Long-term effect on local employment


What remains after the final whistle?


Although many of the jobs are temporary, the impact of the World Cup can leave lasting marks on the local economy. For example, improvements in infrastructure and connectivity continue to generate employment after the tournament ends. In addition, many small and medium-sized enterprises that participated as World Cup suppliers manage to grow or diversify. Some even end up exporting services to other international events.


There is also a "nation branding effect": by being a global showcase, host cities attract more tourism and future investment. A good example is South Africa 2010, which saw a sustained increase in tourism for five years. Or Germany 2006, which used the tournament to relaunch sectors such as design and urban sustainability. However, the positive impact depends heavily on good public management and avoiding projects that are later abandoned.


  • The 2026 World Cup is expected to leave an economic legacy of more than 10 billion dollars

  • In Mexico, 12% of the jobs created could become permanent

  • Canada promotes job training prior to the event

  • USA. FIFA has policies to absorb temporary workers in other sectors after the event. FIFA collaborates with local NGOs to boost youth employment.

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