This browser does not support the Video element.
Seattle leaders outline economic impact, plans ahead of 2026 World Cup
With just months until the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches in Seattle, city and county leaders say the event could bring $845 million to the local economy and support thousands of jobs.
SEATTLE - There are 81 days until the first match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Seattle.
On Thursday, city and state leaders gathered for a closer look at what to expect as hundreds of thousands of fans come into town.
What they're saying:
Officials from Visit Seattle said 2025 was an incredible year with the debut of the Seattle Torrent, and the outstanding performances by the Mariners and Seahawks.
They're especially excited for what's to come this summer.
"Part of what makes I think Seattle really, really special as a host city is the fact that our stadium is right downtown," Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson said.
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson and King County Executive Girmay Zahilay discuss preparations and expected financial impact of the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. (FOX 13 Seattle)
World Cup impact on Seattle economy
By the numbers:
Soon, Seattle welcomes the world, hosting 750,000 fans during matches at Lumen Field turned Seattle Stadium.
Mayor Wilson and King County Executive Girmay Zahilay joined Visit Seattle for the latest look into how the 2026 FIFA World Cup could impact our region, including $845 million infused into King County's economy, 19,000 jobs supported, and nearly $96 million in tax revenue.
Officials expect more fans from around the country and fewer international attendees than first thought.
They said hotel reservations have lagged.
"Leaning into a messaging of being a welcoming region, I don't think has ever been more important given everything that's going on in this country and in the world," Zahilay said.
The organization said in all of 2025, there were 1.5 million international visitors who spent $655 million.
Aerial view of Lumen Field (Photo credit: Rod Mar/Seattle Seahawks)
During the event at the Seattle Convention Center, Gov. Bob Ferguson signed a bill into law to generate about $25 million a year for the Tourism Marketing Authority.
"We want to showcase our beautiful and incredible state and bolster economies all across Washington state," he said.
Visit Seattle counted 39.6 million total visitors last year who spent $8.8 billion and generated $840 million in state and local taxes.
The matches and events this summer?
"It really gives us an opportunity to have a once in a generation moment where we can elevate our visibility on that global stage," said Visit Seattle's Chief Engagement Officer Michael Woody.
What's next:
Visitors will see a "Let's Play SEA 26" campaign from the airport into the city. It's all part of an effort to show Seattle is excited, safe, and ready.
"I think it's really something that has the power to bring us all together around this, you know, amazing global event," Wilson said.
Officials also said they are preparing for the influx of fans.
They said King County Metro will be adding buses on match and non-match days and they'll be extending operations for King County Water Taxis. They also said they will be activating the Emergency Operations Center for the matches and events.
MORE NEWS FROM FOX 13 SEATTLE
Where is Jonathan Hoang? WA man with autism disappeared 1 year ago
As fuel prices rise, WA farmers face mounting challenges
Police say WA man shoots kid in the chest for throwing a water balloon
Seattle high-rises connected by decommissioned Boeing 747 fuselage
SCOTUS hears case that could impact WA ballot counting
To get the best local news, weather and sports in Seattle for free, sign up for the daily FOX Seattle Newsletter.
Download the free FOX LOCAL app for mobile in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store for live Seattle news, top stories, weather updates and more local and national news.
The Source: Information in this story came from Visit Seattle and FOX 13 Seattle reporting.