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.
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WILL THERE BE SPECIAL FAN AREAS AT EACH VENUE?
The Fan Zones for the 2026 World Cup promise to be a festival within a festival. These special areas will be present in every host city—from Toronto to Mexico City—and will offer a safe space, full of atmosphere, technology, and passion for everyone experiencing the tournament, even without entering the stadiums. With live broadcasts, local artists, traditional food, and top-notch security measures, these zones are shaping up to be the social heart of the World Cup.
What are Fan Zones?
The so-called "Fan Zones" are official spaces set up by FIFA in each World Cup host city. They're not just big screens: they're mini-stadiums where you can experience the tournament to the fullest without needing a ticket. They've become a tradition since Germany 2006, and in 2026, they'll be taken to the next level.
A concept that unites cultures
Each Fan Zone will be unique, designed to reflect the local flavor. For example, in Monterrey there will be cuisine from the region, while in Los Angeles, Latin sounds will be combined with electronic beats. In addition, they will be free and open from the group stage to the final. Giant screens to watch all the matches live. Concerts with local and international artists. Food areas with specialties from each region. Secure zones with biometric access control. Brand activations, contests, and street football. In 2018, more than 7 million people visited Fan Zones in Russia. By 2026, that figure is expected to exceed 10 million due to the expanded format with 48 teams and 104 matches. The fan experience is no longer limited to the stadium. Official zones allow you to enjoy the games safely, with connectivity and atmosphere, no matter what country you're from.
What the Fan Zones Will Be Like in Each Venue
Each of the 16 host cities for the 2026 World Cup—11 in the U.S., 3 in Mexico, and 2 in Canada—will have at least one official Fan Zone, although cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Mexico City plan to have multiple zones depending on demand.
A City-by-City Look
Toronto: in Nathan Phillips Square, with an ecological and cultural focus.
Mexico City: Fan Fest in the Zócalo with up to 80,000 people daily.
Atlanta: a techie Fan Zone, with augmented reality and simulators.
Monterrey: barbecues, norteño music, and a neighborhood soccer atmosphere.
Los Angeles: multiple zones, from Santa Monica to downtown.
All will have free WiFi, 24/7 security, and family-friendly areas, so fans of all ages can enjoy themselves without worries. There will also be official merchandise stands, and activities such as FIFA (the video game) tournaments, autograph signings, and 360° projections of historic moments from previous World Cups. According to a FIFA report, 68% of Fan Zone attendees in 2014 said the experience was “better than being in the stadium” thanks to the atmosphere, interaction with other fans, and direct access to exclusive content.
The cultural and economic impact
Fan zones are not only recreational spaces, but also genuine economic and cultural engines. According to Deloitte projections, Fan Zones could generate over $1.5 billion in local spending during the tournament.
Connection, tourism, and urban heritage
Boost local tourism with increased hotel occupancy.
Encourage spending in restaurants, bars, and on transportation.
Provide temporary employment for over 50,000 people.
Create permanent, reusable spaces post-World Cup.
Promote local culture to millions of visitors.
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