Kansas City World Cup 2026 Tickets

Kansas City: Heartland Hospitality Meets World Cup Football

The 2026 World Cup spans 3 countries, 16 cities, and 104 matches, creating an unforgettable summer of football across North America. With the USA, Canada, and Mexico co-hosting the world’s biggest sporting spectacle, each nation is ready to welcome international supporters. Every host city brings its unique culture, energy, and passion for football, and Kansas City is no exception. Famous for legendary barbecue, rich jazz heritage, and iconic fountains, Kansas City promises a distinctly American World Cup experience.

Securing Your Kansas City Match Tickets

With the World Cup happening just once every four years, ticket demand is off the charts. We regularly hear from supporters asking how they can possibly get Kansas City seats, and yes, it requires planning. Here’s your step-by-step guide:

1. Choose your target fixture and click ‘Find Tickets’
2. Pick your preferred seating zone using the stadium diagram
3. Specify the number of tickets you’re purchasing
4. Hit the ‘Get now’ button
5. Complete the order form with your information
6. Double-check all details for accuracy
7. Click ‘Make Payment’
8. Done – tickets secured!

Remember that pricing varies based on seating category and match importance. Knockout fixtures and games featuring popular nations vanish incredibly quickly, so book early and stay alert for release announcements!

Arrowhead Stadium – Where Noise Records Are Made

Across the tournament’s 104 matches, Kansas City hosts 6 of them, all at the legendary Arrowhead Stadium. First opened in 1972, this iconic venue – officially “Kansas City Stadium” during the World Cup per sponsorship regulations – sits in Kansas City, Missouri, and serves as home to the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs, renowned for its electric atmosphere and devoted fanbase.

With capacity exceeding 76,000, Arrowhead Stadium holds the Guinness World Record for loudest stadium roar, hitting an ear-splitting 142.2 decibels. Following a $375 million renovation in 2010, the stadium now features a 360-degree Video Ribbon Board enhancing fan sightlines and an upgraded sound system designed to amplify crowd noise and game-day energy.

Having hosted decades of NFL action, record-shattering crowd roars, and massive college football showdowns, Arrowhead Stadium knows how to handle major events. Now it’s ready to welcome the world’s attention as Kansas City prepares for football’s grandest stage.

Stadium	Capacity	Matches Hosted	Tournament Phases
Arrowhead Stadium	76,416	6	Group Stage, Round of 32, Quarter-final

Kansas City World Cup Fan Festival

No match ticket? No problem – the celebration continues at the National WWI Museum and Memorial where the Fan Festival is occupied.

While a war museum might seem an unexpected choice for welcoming international football supporters, local organizers selected it deliberately for its powerful symbolism, central location, and sweeping downtown Kansas City views.

Entry is completely free throughout the World Cup, running from June 11th through July 19th. What awaits you?

• Live match broadcasts on large screens
• Food vendors and local cuisine
• Live music and performances
• Interactive games and activities

Whether you’re heading to Arrowhead or just soaking in the atmosphere – the Fan Festival delivers Kansas City’s World Cup energy.

Where to Stay in Kansas City: All Budgets Covered

Whether your priority is proximity to Arrowhead Stadium for match days or easy access to the Fan Festival, Kansas City offers accommodation across all price points. Here’s what’s available near the key locations.

Hotels Near Arrowhead Stadium (Kansas City, Missouri)

Price Category	Hotel	Distance
Budget (< £130/night)	Best Western Plus Kansas City Sports Complex Hotel	5-minute drive
Budget (< £130/night)	Hotel Lotus Kansas City Stadium	5-minute drive
Budget (< £130/night)	Extended Stay America – Select Suites – Kansas City – Stadium	5-minute drive
Budget (< £130/night)	Holiday Inn Express & Suites Kansas City Sport Complex Area by IHG	5-minute drive
Budget (< £130/night)	Quality Inn & Suites Kansas City – Independence I-70 East	10-minute drive
Budget (< £130/night)	Super 8 by Wyndham Independence Kansas City	10-minute drive
Mid-Range (£130-£230/night)	Stoney Creek Hotel Kansas City – Independence	15-minute drive
Mid-Range (£130-£230/night)	Wingate by Wyndham Kansas City	15-minute drive
Luxury (> £300/night)	No luxury hotels within immediate vicinity	—

Hotels Near the Fan Festival Site (National WWI Museum and Memorial)

Price Category	Hotel	Distance
Budget (< £130/night)	Fairfield Inn Kansas City Downtown/Union Hill	5-minute drive
Budget (< £130/night)	Cherry Warehouse Hotel	5-minute drive
Budget (< £130/night)	Home2 Suites Kansas City Downtown	5-minute drive
Budget (< £130/night)	La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kansas City Beacon Hill	5-minute drive
Mid-Range (£130-£230/night)	Hampton Inn & Suites Kansas City Downtown Crossroads	5-minute drive
Mid-Range (£130-£230/night)	Hotel Indigo Kansas City – the Crossroads, an IHG Hotel	5-minute drive
Mid-Range (£130-£230/night)	Crossroads Hotel	5-minute drive
Luxury (> £300/night)	The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center	5-minute walk

Smart tip: Planning an extended stay or travelling with a group? Consider an Airbnb or short-term rental. Whatever you choose, book early – rates climb and availability disappears as the tournament approaches.

Getting to Kansas City

Flying from the UK

Most UK travellers fly from London Heathrow to Kansas City International Airport. Currently, there are no nonstop flights, so most journeys involve one stop at a major US hub like Chicago, Dallas, or Atlanta. Total travel time typically runs between 10 and 13 hours, depending on your layover.

Once you land, reaching the city is straightforward. The airport sits about 25 minutes from downtown Kansas City, with taxis, shuttles, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft readily available. For shorter trips or exploring the city, bike-share stations and e-scooter rentals are scattered throughout central Kansas City, particularly near Union Station and the Crossroads Arts District.

Driving is certainly an option, though traffic and parking near major venues like Arrowhead Stadium or the Fan Festival site can get complicated on match days. Public transport, including the KC Streetcar, often proves the smarter choice.

Navigating Kansas City

Kansas City’s public transit includes the KC Streetcar and bus services connecting key areas. While the system is more limited than in larger cities, rideshares and the free streetcar service make getting around downtown and to major attractions manageable. For match days, expect enhanced shuttle services to Arrowhead Stadium.

Travelling Between Central Region Host Cities

Kansas City anchors the Central Region alongside Dallas, Houston, Mexico City, Monterrey, and Guadalajara. Flying between these host cities is hands-down the quickest and most convenient option, with frequent, affordable flights especially through carriers like Aeroméxico, Volaris, and Viva Aerobus.

Travelling between American host cities – Kansas City, Dallas, and Houston – is straightforward via Amtrak, America’s primary rail network. Train journeys require patience, but Amtrak provides comfortable seating and often scenic routes. Mexico’s rail infrastructure is limited, so there’s no service between the USA and Mexico, and travelling within Mexico by train is challenging. Locals typically prefer flying or driving between Mexican cities.

Long-distance buses offer a popular and budget-friendly alternative with comfortable seating, onboard entertainment, and scenic views, though they take considerably longer than flying or trains.

Road trips remain an option, though they consume substantial time, as shown below:

Route	Distance	Driving Time
Kansas City → Dallas	510 miles (820 km)	7.5-8.5 hours
Kansas City → Houston	740 miles (1,190 km)	11-12 hours
Kansas City → Monterrey	1,030 miles (1,660 km)	17-19 hours
Kansas City → Guadalajara	1,400 miles (2,255 km)	23-25 hours
Kansas City → Mexico City	1,370 miles (2,205 km)	22-24 hours

Kansas City’s Football Story

Football arrived in Kansas City during the early 1900s when European immigrant communities brought their passion for the game across the Atlantic. The city quickly embraced the sport, with matches organized in parks and community fields by clubs connected to churches, cultural societies, and neighborhood associations.

Professional football didn’t arrive until 1968 with the formation of the Kansas City Spurs as part of the original North American Soccer League. The team burned brightly, capturing the NASL championship in 1969, but their success was short-lived – they disbanded just a year later in 1970.

After years without a professional club, Kansas City was named one of the original 10 cities for Major League Soccer’s launch in 1995. They debuted in 1996 as the Kansas City Wiz, later rebranding to Kansas City Wizards. The club rebranded once more in 2010, settling on Sporting Kansas City, and has become widely regarded as one of MLS’s most successful franchises, winning the MLS Cup twice, the US Open Cup four times, and the Supporters’ Shield once.

Playing their matches at Children’s Mercy Park, Sporting KC supporters are renowned for their passion and loyalty, making them perfect ambassadors for Kansas City’s World Cup role.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many World Cup fixtures will Kansas City host?

Kansas City will host 6 World Cup matches, including group-stage games, one Round of 32 encounter, and one quarter-final, establishing it as a significant tournament venue.

When can I buy World Cup tickets for Kansas City?

World Cup tickets are currently available through the Fanatix website. Your best strategy is purchasing right after the draw when team matchups are confirmed. Specific fixture tickets will go on sale shortly following the draw.

Can I purchase multiple match tickets for Kansas City?

Yes, though you’ll complete individual transactions for each match. The system doesn’t feature a shopping cart, so each game requires its own separate order.

Which airport serves Kansas City?

Kansas City International Airport is your gateway. While there are currently no direct flights from London, most journeys involve one convenient connection through a major US hub.

How do I reach downtown Kansas City from the airport?

The airport sits about 25 minutes from downtown. Taxis, shuttles, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available. Rental cars are also an option.

What are the distances from Kansas City to other host cities?

Kansas City occupies a central position in the United States. Here are approximate distances:

• Dallas – 510 miles (820 km)
• Houston – 740 miles (1,190 km)
• Atlanta – 660 miles (1,062 km)
• Chicago – 500 miles (805 km)
• Mexico City – 1,370 miles (2,205 km)
• Monterrey – 1,030 miles (1,660 km)
• Guadalajara – 1,400 miles (2,255 km)

These distances make multi-city trips feasible with proper planning.

Can I travel by train from Kansas City to other host cities?

Train service from Kansas City via Amtrak reaches select destinations including Dallas and Houston, though routes are slower and less frequent than flights. Flying remains the preferred option for most supporters.

What’s the best way to move around Kansas City during the World Cup?

Use a combination of the KC Streetcar (free), buses, walking, and rideshares. The streetcar covers downtown and key attractions. For Arrowhead Stadium, expect shuttle services on match days. E-scooters and bike rentals are also available in central areas.

Which Kansas City neighborhoods work best for World Cup visitors?

Downtown, Crossroads Arts District, and Westport are excellent picks. Downtown offers proximity to the Fan Festival and transport links. Crossroads delivers galleries, dining, and nightlife. Westport is known for entertainment and historic charm.

When should I book Kansas City accommodation for the World Cup?

Book immediately if possible. Rates will surge and rooms will disappear as the tournament nears. Many hotels provide flexible cancellation policies, letting you secure your spot now and adjust if plans change.

Where will Kansas City’s official Fan Festival take place?

The official Fan Festival will occupy the National WWI Museum and Memorial grounds, offering central location and panoramic downtown views.

Do I need tickets for the Kansas City Fan Festival?

No tickets necessary. The Fan Festival is free and open to everyone.

What should I expect at Kansas City’s Fan Festival?

Large screens broadcasting live matches, musical performances, food vendors, sponsor exhibits, interactive activities, and merchandise stalls. It’s designed to be family-friendly and welcoming to supporters of all ages.

What are Kansas City’s top attractions?

Must-see spots include the National WWI Museum and Memorial, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Country Club Plaza, Union Station, and the historic Jazz District.

Where can I watch other World Cup matches in Kansas City without attending?

Catch games at the Fan Festival or local sports bars including The Peanut, Johnny’s Tavern, and Tanner’s Bar and Grill. Numerous hotels and restaurants will also broadcast matches.

What’s Kansas City’s weather like during the World Cup in June?

Expect warm and humid conditions, with typical highs around 86°F (30°C) and lows near 66°F (19°C). Occasional thunderstorms are possible.

What should I pack for a Kansas City World Cup trip?

Pack light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a reusable water bottle, and a rain jacket or umbrella. For evening events, bring a light jacket.

Is downtown Kansas City safe at night?

Downtown Kansas City is generally safe, particularly in busy zones near major attractions and the Fan Festival. Stay aware of your surroundings, stick to well-lit areas, and travel with others when feasible.

How long is the flight from London to Kansas City?

With one connection, flights from London to Kansas City typically take 10-13 hours total travel time, depending on your layover duration and connection city.

What’s Kansas City’s time zone?

Kansas City operates in the Central Time Zone (CT), which is UTC−6 during standard time and UTC−5 during daylight saving time. The city will be on daylight saving time in June.

How do I travel between Arrowhead Stadium and the Kansas City Fan Festival?

Arrowhead Stadium sits about 15 miles east of downtown Kansas City. You can drive, take a rideshare, or use shuttle services operating during the tournament. Travel time runs about 20-25 minutes depending on traffic.

Other World Cup 2026 Venues in the United States

City	Stadium	Key Matches
New York	MetLife Stadium	Final, Semi-final
Los Angeles	SoFi Stadium	Semi-final, Quarter-final
Dallas	AT&T Stadium	Quarter-final
Atlanta	Mercedes-Benz Stadium	Quarter-final
Houston	NRG Stadium	Group Stage, Round of 16
Philadelphia	Lincoln Financial Field	Group Stage, Round of 16
Miami	Hard Rock Stadium	Group Stage, Round of 16
San Francisco	Levi's Stadium	Group Stage, Round of 16
Seattle	Lumen Field	Group Stage, Round of 16
Boston	Gillette Stadium	Group Stage