Roger Hampel
FOT: Axios
The FIFA World Cup, a football spectacle that grips the globe every four years, is set to make history in 2026. For the first time, North America will jointly host the tournament with the United States, Canada, and Mexico at the helm. Amplifying the anticipation is the fact that this edition will also be the first to feature 48 teams.
Though we are a few years away, the buzz around the centerpiece of this event - the World Cup final, scheduled for July 19, 2026 - is palpable. Soccer aficionados are eagerly scouring for information on the possible venue.
The Mystery Deepens
Despite FIFA announcing the venues for the matches last year, the exact allocation of games, including the final, remains a secret. Presently, three stadiums are believed to be in contention: SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, AT&T Stadium in Dallas, and MetLife Stadium in New York.
SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles
A modern architectural marvel, SoFi Stadium, which was inaugurated in 2020, boasts a seating capacity of 70,240. Despite its state-of-the-art design and being a centerpiece for the LA's 2028 Olympics bid, the stadium is grappling with concerns regarding its field size, which could be a potential deal-breaker for hosting the final. Also, there's chatter about revenue disagreements between the stadium's management and FIFA.
MetLife Stadium, New York
Situated in East Rutherford, New Jersey, MetLife Stadium has a much larger capacity of 82,500. While its design doesn't match the flair of SoFi, it has the advantage of being in proximity to New York City. The city officials have expressed eagerness to host the final, hinting at an aggressive campaign to win the bid.
AT&T Stadium, Dallas
AT&T Stadium in Dallas, which can accommodate up to 105,000 spectators, is a strong contender. This stadium is not just vast but visually captivating. Recent reports have shown optimism regarding its chances to host the final. Dallas Sports Commission's Executive Director, Monica Paul, expressed confidence and excitement about the city's potential role in the World Cup.
Other Notable Mentions
Historically iconic stadiums like Estadio Azteca and the Rose Bowl won't be in the race. The former, despite hosting two finals in the past, will miss out since all knockout stage matches are slated to occur in the US. The latter, which was the stage for the 1994 World Cup final, lost its spot to the newer SoFi Stadium.
Conclusion
While the World Cup's complete schedule is expected to be released by the end of the year, the anticipation regarding the final's venue continues to build. The selection will not just reflect FIFA's logistics and financial considerations but also the readiness and appeal of the cities contending for the honor. The football community eagerly waits for the final whistle on this decision.
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