New York– With one year to go until the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off, representatives from all 11 U.S. host cities have unveiled ambitious plans to ensure the tournament leaves a lasting impact on their communities—extending far beyond the final whistle. From infrastructure upgrades and youth sports initiatives to cultural inclusion and economic empowerment, city officials are aiming to leverage the global event as a catalyst for long-term change.
During a panel discussion held Monday at the Paley Center for Media in New York, city leaders outlined legacy programs designed to strengthen local communities through equity-focused and culturally relevant initiatives.
One standout example is Seattle’s Chinese American Art Legacy Project—a $250,000 city-funded initiative that celebrates the contributions of Chinese Americans in the city’s historic Chinatown-International District, located near the stadium.
“This is a people-centered legacy,” said April Putney, a representative of Seattle’s host committee. “We’re working hand-in-hand with local communities. It’s not just about hosting World Cup matches—it’s about who gets to be part of the story.”
In response to a question from Xinhua, Putney emphasized the importance of integrating the Chinatown district into the city’s fan and cultural programming. “We want local businesses and residents to benefit directly from the global attention,” she added.
Other host cities are also developing community-based initiatives tailored to their unique local contexts. Los Angeles is issuing grants to grassroots nonprofits, Miami is curating a culturally immersive Fan Festival, Kansas City is testing a new regional transit model, and Dallas is investing in youth soccer facilities and expanding local media capacity.
While FIFA is responsible for the tournament’s competitive structure, U.S. host cities are prioritizing local impact—through public viewing zones, regional branding, and inclusive partnerships. The broader goal is to use the World Cup as a platform to foster civic pride, cultural inclusion, and economic opportunity.
The 2026 World Cup will be the largest in the tournament’s history, spanning 16 host cities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The U.S. will host 60 of the 104 total matches, including the final, positioning the country not only as the event’s logistical hub but also as a driver of its social legacy.
As anticipation builds, city leaders are making clear that the World Cup will be more than a month-long sporting spectacle—it will be a springboard for lasting progress in communities across the country. (Source: IANS)
