Will Antoine Griezmann make it to the 2026 World Cup with France? We analyze statistics, current events, and his role with Les Bleus on their way to the most important tournament on the planet.
Home
»
World Cup 2026
»
WHAT WILL TRANSPORTATION BE LIKE DURING THE 2026 WORLD CUP?
The 2026 World Cup will be the first in history to be held in three countries: the United States, Mexico, and Canada. With 16 host cities and enormous distances between some of them, transportation will play a key role in the fan experience. In this article, we'll tell you how to get around during the tournament: from flights and trains to local public transport, approximate costs, money-saving tips, and interesting facts that will be useful if you're planning a trip. Everything is explained clearly, with a football-friendly and practical tone.
How far will you have to travel to watch matches?
The 2026 World Cup will have 16 host cities spread across three countries. The United States will be the main host with 11 cities (such as Los Angeles, New York, and Miami), Mexico will contribute 3 (Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey), and Canada 2 (Toronto and Vancouver).
Cities that are very far away… and others not so much
Some distances can be impressive. For example, between Vancouver and Mexico City there are more than 4,000 km, while from New York to Los Angeles it is almost 4,500 km. This necessitates a different logistical approach than previous World Cups, where everything took place in a single country and the cities were closer together.
Total number of host cities: 16
Host countries: USA, Mexico, Canada
Average distance between venues: 1,500 km
Duration of domestic flights: between 1 and 6 hours
Total tournament duration: 39 days
A curious fact: this will be the first World Cup where a fan could watch matches in three different countries in the same week, with plane tickets and passport in The organization recommends planning your itinerary in advance, especially if you plan to follow your team in different phases. Flights, ground connections, and accommodations should be coordinated well in advance.
Planes, trains, subways and cars: everything counts
Unlike other World Cups, where you could travel by train or bus between various venues, in 2026 air transport will be key. Regional flights will be the fastest (and often the only viable) way to connect distant cities.
What options will there be for getting around?
Planes: Airlines such as Delta, American Airlines, Volaris, Aeromexico, and Air Canada will offer special routes and discounts for fans.
Trains: On some routes in the US and Canada, the train (such as Amtrak and VIA Rail) will be a scenic and comfortable option.
Rental Cars: Ideal if you're traveling in a group and want the freedom to explore. But be aware of traffic and parking costs at the stadiums.
Public transportation: In cities like New York, Toronto, Mexico City, or Los Angeles, the subway and buses will be key to getting around the city.
Mobility apps: Uber, Lyft, Didi, and similar services will operate in almost all venues.
Many cities have already announced improvements to their public transportation systems to accommodate thousands of tourists. For example, Dallas is expanding its light rail network, and Mexico City will renovate Metrobus units with Wi-Fi and air conditioning. A "Fan Pass for Transportation" will also be implemented at some venues, allowing fans to use the subway and buses for free on match days simply by showing their ticket. Fun fact: Canada is already testing an autonomous (driverless) bus service that could debut during the tournament in tourist areas.
Tips for fans planning to travel
Moving between three countries and 16 cities may sound complicated, but with some planning, anything is possible. Here are some tips to make your transportation experience at the 2026 World Cup as smooth as possible.
World Cup Organization 101
Buy your flights in advance: prices skyrocket as the date approaches.
Check if your passport needs a visa for the US, Mexico, or Canada (some countries have different requirements).
Use apps like Rome2Rio or Google Maps to plan your routes between venues.
Book accommodation near a metro or train line to save time and money.
Bring a comfortable backpack for the Match days: many stadiums are far from the city center and require walking. Statistically, more than 5 million people are expected to travel between venues during the tournament. An average of 50,000 additional commercial flights are estimated for June and July 2026 in North America alone. And as a bonus, a little gem: FIFA is working with electric mobility companies to reduce the event's carbon footprint. It is projected that 30% of official transportation will be zero-emission. In short, the 2026 World Cup will not only be the biggest, but also the most traveled. If you go, be prepared to experience it with your passport in one hand… and your jersey on in the other.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED
