World Cup KC

As the new leader of the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas, Watson will take over the role amid serious budget problems despite rapid development around the Kansas Speedway. Voters also weighed in on five open commission seats and reelected the Wyandotte County Sheriff.

The Metropolitan Organization Countering Sexual Assault, or MOCSA, is doing 200 trainings for bar and restaurant workers after officials noticed an uptick in reports of sexual assault during the 2023 NFL Draft, which was in Kansas City. Adding to their fears is a temporary allowance for 23-hour-a-day alcohol sales.

An estimated 650,000 fans will travel to Kansas City to watch six matches during the FIFA World Cup 26, and arts and culture leaders want to be a part of the moment. The sector has gathered each month to stay informed and on track.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is fast approaching, and Kansas City will host a massive fan festival on the National WWI Museum and Memorial lawn. Read on for a first look.

The city will fund entrepreneurs, artists and leasing support for landlords who open pop-up shops in vacant buildings for the thousands of people who come to Kansas City for the World Cup next year. $10,000 grants will be available through the newly announced Open Doors! Program.

Many soccer fans were excited that the men's World Cup would be coming to the U.S. next year — including six games in Kansas City, Missouri — until they discovered how much FIFA is charging for tickets.

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission recently approved $1.7 million of general revenue funds for an extra run of the Amtrak River Runner starting in April 2026. Kansas City is hosting six World Cup matches next summer.

The KC Game Plan is designed specifically for business owners in such high-engagement industries as dining, lodging, retail and entertainment.

The popular English soccer league is bringing its 11th Fan Fest to Kansas City, and fans can attend for free.

Kansas City's outdoor dining program has awarded $300,000 in grants to more than 30 local restaurants, coffee shops and pubs since last year, in a push to create more vibrant public spaces ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

With more than 6,000 open food service job listings and no coordinated plan to address staffing, Kansas City restaurant leaders worry they won’t be ready for the massive influx of World Cup visitors in 2026.

Visa cardholders can enter a drawing for the first phase of ticket sales beginning September 10. Winners will be able to purchase tickets to any of the World Cup’s 104 matches, including six in Kansas City.