Phoenix excludes itself from hosting 2026 FIFA World Cup matches

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 10, 2026, 10:52 PM

Last updated Jun 10, 2026

Phoenix excludes itself from hosting 2026 FIFA World Cup matches
Summary

Phoenix will not host any matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to begin on June 11 in Mexico. Local sports and tourism leaders determined that the financial commitment and anticipated returns did not justify a bid. The Arizona Sports and Tourism Authority, led by Tom Sadler, indicated that hosting costs could exceed those of a Super Bowl but with less economic impact. Despite the withdrawal from the bidding process in 2017, the region continues to host international soccer events like Copa America and the CONCACAF Gold Cup.

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Key Details
  • 2026 FIFA World Cup starts June 11 in Mexico
  • Phoenix withdrew from the bidding process in 2017
  • Costs of hosting outweighed potential tourism benefits
  • Arizona has hosted various international soccer tournaments
  • Tom Sadler states commitment to fiscal responsibility
Latest Updates
  • 10:52 PMYahoo SportsHere's why Phoenix has no 2026 FIFA World Cup matches
What they're saying
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So why is Phoenix, no stranger to hosting the biggest sporting events, not part of the 2026 World Cup?

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