KC2026 says more than 413,000 fans attended World Cup matches at Kansas City Stadium
KC2026 said Kansas City "sets the standard" as a host city in a July 16 update.
KC2026 said Kansas City "sets the standard" as a host city in a July 16 update.
Kansas City is taking a breath after a monthlong World Cup whirlwind, and local leaders are touting what they describe as a "safe" and "seamless" experience for visitors and Kansas Citians.
Kansas City wrapped up its hosting stretch after the quarterfinal between Argentina and Switzerland on July 11, propelling Argentina to its spot in the final match.
Wins by Argentina served as bookends to Kansas City's World Cup run, as Argentina also took the Kansas City Stadium pitch on June 16, the metro's first match, in a showdown against Algeria.
The pitch also welcomed Ecuador vs. Curaçao, Tunisia vs. Netherlands, Algeria vs. Austria and Colombia vs. Ghana.
Throughout the excitement, many Kansas Citians formed a special connection with the four teams based in the metro during the tournament: Algeria, Argentina, England and the Netherlands.
"Years of planning and collaboration made this moment possible, but at the heart of it all were the people who opened their arms and hearts to welcome the world to this special place," Pam Kramer, CEO of KC2026, said in a news release. "Here, in the Soccer Capital of America, civic and community groups came together to create an experience that was exceptional, welcoming and unmistakably Kansas City. We didn't simply host six matches — we introduced the world to a region defined by collaboration, hospitality and an enduring passion for soccer. The way this community came together exceeded every expectation, and I couldn’t be more proud of what we accomplished together."
So how many people really showed up?
A breakdown of the numbers
KC2026, the organization in charge of hosting strategy, shared updated numbers on July 16.
- Fans who attended matches at Kansas City Stadium: 413,169
- Average per match: 68,862
- Countries represented on the pitch: 10
- FIFA Fan Festival attendees: More than 400,000
- ConnectKC26 travel pass holders: More than 215,000, with 145,000 utilizing the Stadium Direct pass
- Volunteers: 3,400, with a show rate of 90%
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