October 22 – With the 2026 World Cup just 18 months from arriving on the shores of Mexico, Canada, and the United States, local organising committees are looking to brand their cities. With that in mind, Toronto, Kansas City and Los Angeles have invited local artists to design the poster that will leave an historic mark in their football culture.
The Los Angeles 2026 Host Committee have announced a $20,000 prize for the artist who designs the World Cup poster that will be showcased throughout their region.
“We are thrilled to offer this incredible opportunity to our local art community to be part of the world’s largest single sport event in history,” said Kathryn S. Schloessman, President & CEO, Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission and Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Host Committee.
“The winning poster design will represent Los Angeles’ diverse culture, showcase its historic soccer legacy and model the region’s bold, creative and welcoming spirit,” the committee instructed. “The selected artwork and artist will be prominently featured leading up to Los Angeles hosting the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) Opening Match on June 12, 2026.”
In Toronto, one can only assume their budget was a little tighter with the winning artist receiving just $8,000. The city is calling on eligible creators to express their interest by completing a virtual submission form by the October 29, 11:59 pm deadline. Submissions must include a biography of 250 words or less, along with 10 examples of past work. These samples cannot contain images of any identifiable people.
Kansas City ups the cash ante to $10,000 for their winner asking that “the poster should be an expression of our shared love of sports, but also capture how we work together, celebrate victories and unite as the heart of the nation.”
Since the inception of the World Cup, posters have been some of the most recognisable ways to identify tournaments. With the 2026 logo, perhaps one of the least inspiring designs, it is hoped that the host cities will provide a little more flair and colour.
Contact the writer of this story, Nick Webster, at moc.l1734985374labto1734985374ofdlr1734985374owedi1734985374sni@o1734985374fni1734985374