How Kansas City became unlikely 2026 World Cup hosts for the US

Kansas City, Missouri, will host six matches in the 2026 World Cup, including a potential quarterfinal between Argentina and Portugal featuring Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Despite its relatively low population, Kansas City secured its place as one of the 11 US host cities through over $650 million in investments in stadiums and sports facilities. The city was announced as a host on June 16, 2022, after declaring its ambition to be the 'Soccer Capital of America' in 2013.