The countdown to the 26th FIFA World Cup™ in Miami begins: just one year to go

The city of Miami is preparing to host one of the most important sporting events on the planet. Exactly one year before the start of the FIFA World Cup™, Greater Miami and Miami Beach are consolidating their position as the epicenter of the international competition. Seven matches will take place at Hard Rock Stadium, renamed Miami Stadium during the tournament, located in Miami Gardens. The schedule includes matches from the Group Stage through the Quarterfinals and the Third-Place Match, starting June 15, 2026.

The celebrations have already begun with the opening of the FIFA Club World Cup, which will be held in the city from June 14 to July 13, 2025, and will feature historic teams such as Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Boca Juniors, and Inter Miami. This international competition, along with other world-class tournaments, consolidates Miami as a prime destination for global sport.

David Whitaker, president and CEO of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB), highlighted the city's strategic role as host. He emphasized that the countdown to the World Cup not only reflects a pivotal moment, but also Miami's recognition as a diverse and globally connected community, capable of hosting high-level competitions such as the NHL Winter Classic, the College Football Playoff National Championship, the World Baseball Classic, and the NASCAR Championship.

The impact of these events extends beyond sports. The Latin American and Caribbean influences that characterize Miami are present in every celebration, from spontaneous street gatherings to oceanside nightlife. The fan experience in this tropical setting is not only defined by the passion for sports, but also by the opportunity to enjoy art, cuisine, and beaches, offering a unique combination of competition and recreation.

With a well-established infrastructure and an annual program that includes events such as the Miami Open, the Miami Marathon, the Bacardi Cup Regatta, the Capital One Orange Bowl, and the Formula 1 Grand Prix, the city continues to raise its profile internationally. It is also home to teams such as the Miami HEAT, Miami Dolphins, Miami Marlins, and Inter Miami CF, which strengthen the local sporting identity year-round.

The positioning strategy led by the GMCVB and its partners has been focused on consolidating Miami as a world-class sports tourism destination. Marketing campaigns, building global partnerships, and promoting a diverse and vibrant cultural identity are part of a comprehensive approach that seeks not only to attract fans to the stadiums but also to foster sustainable tourism and extend visitor stays, encouraging them to discover Greater Miami's many attractions.

With the countdown underway, Miami is gearing up to offer an unforgettable experience during the 26th FIFA World Cup™, solidifying its role as a global sports, cultural, and tourism hub.