What the 2026 World Cup Means for California
Discover how the World Cup will transform California’s economy, tourism, football culture and much more.
When the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off in North America, California will sit at the heart of the action. Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium (rebranded as the Los Angeles Stadium for the tournament) and Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara will host multiple matches, bringing the biggest event ever in world football to one of the world’s most influential states.
Billions on the Line
Los Angeles alone is projected to gain around $600 million in total economic impact from hosting eight World Cup matches, driven by visitor spending, follow-on activity and media exposure. Analysts estimate nearly 150,000 incremental out-of-town visitors for LA, generating over 329,000 additional hotel room-nights and a sizable bump in local and state revenue.
State-wide, projections suggest California could see up to $1.2 billion in economic benefits once the Bay Area’s contribution is added, although some economists view that figure as optimistic. Even if the final number is lower, the impact will still be comparable to hosting multiple Super Bowls back-to-back, thanks to the tournament’s length and global pull.
Nationwide tourism forecasts point to a 10% jump in international visits to the US in June 2026 and 3% in July, with major host states like California set to capture a big slice of that uplift. Cities are already planning fan festivals, expanded transport links, and security operations to cope with millions of visitors.
Football Capital of the Americas
Culturally, the World Cup will showcase California’s unique football landscape. Los Angeles is effectively home turf not only for the USMNT, who are scheduled to play two group games at SoFi, but also for Mexico, whose national team has repeatedly drawn huge crowds in the state over the past two decades.
MLS clubs LAFC, LA Galaxy, and San Jose Earthquakes already anchor thriving supporter communities. A World Cup on local soil should turbo-charge youth participation, grassroots investmen,t and interest in women’s and men’s professional teams alike, especially in Latino communities where football is already the dominant sport.
The global spotlight will also strengthen California’s image as a sa creative and tech hub. Expect Hollywood tie-ins, music events, influencer-led fan content, and major brand activations around LA Live, Santa Monica, San Francisco and Silicon Valley.
The Betting Boom
Globally, World Cup betting will be a hive of activity during the tournament, showing just how popular it is worldwide. While traditional online sports betting remains prohibited in California, after voters rejected proposals in 2022, residents still engage through legal horse racing, daily fantasy sports and emerging prediction-market style apps that operate under different regulations.
That means local regulators and responsible-gambling advocates will be watching closely, as global operators flood media and social platforms with World Cup-themed content aimed at both US and international audiences.
Conclusion
Ultimately, what the World Cup means for California will be measured long after the final whistle. Improved transport links, upgraded stadiums and convention facilities, and the international exposure gained by LA and the Bay Area are expected to support future mega-events such as the 2027 Super Bowl and the 2028 Olympic Games.
If leveraged well, the 2026 FIFA World Cup can leave California with more than memories: a stronger visitor economy, deeper football roots, and a reinforced image as a place where global sport, culture and technology meet.
