July 18 – Baltimore-Maryland’s 2026 FIFA World Cup Host City bid has been given a boost in local authority support with the State of Maryland’s Lt. Governor Boyd K. Rutherford and Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott being appointed in co-chair roles.
“Hosting FIFA World Cup 2026 matches in Baltimore-Maryland is a once in a generation opportunity that will accelerate our city’s ongoing transformation, with new jobs, living and work areas, and enriched recreational spaces for the community. It will truly have a positive, economic, social and cultural impact,” said Scott.
“We can also ensure FIFA and US Soccer of a first-class experience for teams, players, fans and all members of the soccer family. Our modernized and easily accessible M&T Bank Stadium is in an ideal city-center location that can be reached on foot or by public transport. The over 71,000 capacity venue is certain to be a sell-out and our downtown FanFests will be full of passionate soccer fans who will enjoy our warm and vibrant hospitality.”
The bid states as its vision that it will use the World Cup to “accelerate the development of football and create a major new market for the game in North America.”
Baltimore-Maryland is one of 17 US bidders for 10 host slots – or perhaps 11 depending on whether Canada has two or three host slots.
Describing themselves as “underdogs” in the bidding process, they don’t have a an embedded football culture in the city, they nevertheless want to stimulate one and have a lot to bring to a World Cup party.
“We can also ensure FIFA and US Soccer of a first-class experience for teams, players, fans and all members of the soccer family. Our modernized and easily accessible M&T Bank Stadium is in an ideal city-center location that can be reached on foot or by public transport. The over 71,000 capacity venue is certain to be a sell-out and our downtown FanFests will be full of passionate soccer fans who will enjoy our warm and vibrant hospitality,” said Scott.
FIFA bid inspectors are expected to start making site visits in September with a final decision due in December.
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