January 31 – Excitement is building in the respective host cities for the 2026 World Cup, and with the 500-day countdown officially beginning, each local organising committee is keen to highlight their progress. In Kansas City, KC2026 is sharing ways for the region to get involved.
“No matter where you live in our great state, there’s an opportunity this year for you to get involved as Missouri prepares for its moment on the international stage,” said Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe.
“The FIFA World Cup 26 is a game changer for our economy and will showcase all Kansas has to offer on an international stage,” Kansas Governor Laura Kelly said. “As we approach the beginning of the games, I look forward to witnessing the transformation of the Kansas City Metro Region as our investments produce tangible results ahead of this exciting opportunity.”
“Kansas City is proud to enter the global spotlight as the world gets ready to experience the FIFA World Cup 26™ in our hometown,” said Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas.
“The hard work of countless individuals over the next 500 days will showcase our city’s ability to deliver world-class events and hospitality that is second to none. We are ready to welcome the world and share the spirit, culture and cuisine that make Kansas City the heart of America. Together, we will create an unforgettable experience for fans, players and residents alike.”
Pam Kramer, KC2026 CEO said: “We’re on track in every planning vertical, with ‘all-green’ status from FIFA on our deliverables.
“We know that we have an entire region ready to step up and show the world what we already know: Kansas City will be the heart of the FIFA World Cup 26”.
She highlighted what 2025 will look like in terms of deliverables.
- RFPs released for Kansas City FIFA Fan Festival Event Production, KC2026 marketing agencies and more.
- FIFA World Cup 26™ Kansas City Host City Poster winning design and artist revealed.
- One year until the start of the FIFA World Cup 26™ on June 11.
- Weeklong celebrations, including the launch of official countdown clocks and pop-up events.
- Volunteer portal for the FIFA World Cup 26 Kansas City opens. Thousands of volunteers will be needed to support the competition. Those interested can sign up for the KC2026 newsletter to receive notifications when the portal opens.
- FIFA World Cup 26 Kansas City volunteer selections begin.
- Kansas City FIFA Fan Festival operating days and hours confirmed.
- Once teams are confirmed, competing squads will submit final selections and preferences for Team Base Camp Locations
The Kansas City region is home to 2.5 million people and is a vibrant metro in the heart of the U.S., known as the ‘KC Heartland’.
Contact the writer of this story, Nick Webster, at moc.l1738304040labto1738304040ofdlr1738304040owedi1738304040sni@o1738304040fni1738304040