With just over a year until the 2026 World Cup, which will be held jointly between the United States, Mexico, and Canada, executives from some key American industries essential for the event are expressing concerns about whether the United States will be ready to host such a large-scale competition and accommodate a massive influx of international visitors.
The president and CEO of the US Travel Association, Geoff Freeman, and the president and CEO of MGM Resorts International, William Hornbuckle, have voiced their worries about whether the US travel system will be prepared to manage the large number of foreign visitors expected for the event.
The concerns cover a wide range of issues, such as the long wait times for visa approval, which may discourage many people from traveling to the US for the tournament.
Another issue is the shortage of staff that could cause significant delays for visitors passing through customs upon arrival in the country.
There are also concerns that security lines could become so long that they extend outside the airports.
Freeman stated that although the tournament is still 15 months away, time is running out to address the list of concerns. Despite this, he emphasized that he remains hopeful that the country will take action and manage to correct the course to ensure that the event is the best ever held.
The World Cup is set to begin on June 11. The famous Estadio Azteca in Mexico City will host the opening match. The United States’ first match is scheduled for the following day in Southern California.
The tournament, which will feature 48 participating teams, will conclude on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Source: CNN