The FIFA World Cup has officially begun across North America, marking the start of the largest tournament in the competition’s history. The expanded format is expected to attract record audiences and generate substantial economic activity.
Cities hosting the games report intense fan engagements with extensive safety, transit and tourism preparations under way. Economists expect heavy consumer services growth across retail, hospitality and digital broadcast subscriptions throughout the tournament. Athletes and fans have arrived representing diverse regions, all focused on the beautiful game while local industries optimize of the historic scale of active participation.