D.C. Announces Bid to Host 2026 FIFA World Cup

Events DC officially announced D.C.’s bid to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup games today. Mayor Bowser and the newly formed DC2026 Advisory Board believe our city’s rich history, diversity and love of the game make D.C. the obvious choice as host of the 2026 games. This announcement brings a spark of excitement to these trying times the District and the world are facing.

“Right now, as countries around the world continue to respond to this pandemic, the 2026 FIFA World Cup is something we can all look forward to,” Mayor Bowser said in a statement to Events DC. “And when the tournament comes to North America, it only makes sense for D.C. – the Sports Capital and District of Champions – to host. We are already a city united by the game, and in 2026, we look forward to uniting the world.”

The virtual announcement outlines three major pillars in their reasoning to bring the FIFA World Cup to D.C.; D.C. as “America’s Diverse Global Capital” and an international business hub, the District’s history of hosting internationally recognized events – including hosting the FIFA World Cup in 1994 – and D.C.’s commitment to supporting the future growth of the game across the city with increased infrastructure and dedicated green spaces.

D.C. United player and co-chair of the DC2026 Advisory Board Bill Hamid emphasized the culture of the region as a foundation “to successfully highlight the matches and leave a lasting impact on the future of the game” for soccer fans in D.C. and the world. Add that with the District’s recent winning streak in sports, and you’ve got a recipe for the perfect city to host the prestigious games.

Join the movement and support D.C.’s pursuit to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup by following @DC2026 across all social media platforms. Pledge your support by signing up for email updates at www.dc2026.org.