Washington, DC announced its official bid to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is known as the most prestigious soccer competition in the world.
The announcement came from DC Mayor Muriel Bowser and her newly formed DC2026 Advisory Board, along with Events DC, on Tuesday, June 30.
“As a global city with deep roots in soccer history paired with world-class infrastructure and a proven ability to host high-profile, international events, Washington, DC is positioned to be an unmatched host city for the historic 2026 FIFA World Cup, for the first time spanning three nations: Mexico, Canada and U.S.,” said a press release.
It is noted that the District has hosted many international events from presidential inaugurations to the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival, and that it is able to welcome over 20 million visitors each year with its world-class hotels and top restaurants from Michelin-star chefs.
DC is #UnitedByTheGame.
Join me in bringing the 2026 @FIFAWorldCup to
The District by becoming a @DC2026 supporter:https://t.co/pNAYj29HU4 #DC2026 pic.twitter.com/b6yT8ekzSE— Mayor Muriel Bowser (@MayorBowser) June 30, 2020
“Right now, as countries around the world continue to respond to this pandemic, the 2026 FIFA World Cup is something we can all look forward to,” Mayor Bowser was quoted as saying in the statement. “And when the tournament comes to North America, it only makes sense for DC — the Sports Capital and District of Champions — to host. We are already a city united by the game, and in 2026, we look forward to uniting the world.”
Among the members of the new Advisory Board are leading figures of the city’s soccer community such as Jason Levien, DC United’s CEO and Managing General Partner; Eddie Pope, National Soccer Hall of Famer, member of the US Men’s National Team and revered DC United player; and Brianna Scurry, National Soccer Hall of Famer, FIFA Women’s World Cup Champion, Olympic Gold medalist and Washington Spirit coach.
“Being selected to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup games would be an incredible opportunity. This achievement will confirm what we know – that DC is a tremendous soccer city. We remain excited to showcase DC’s incredible fanbase and its vibrant soccer roots on global display and also look forward to working alongside US Soccer and FIFA as we seek to host the 2026 games,” said Levien about the bid.