Kansas City’s visitor estimate for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is climbing after the city learned which teams it will host. Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, headlines a strong lineup of fan-heavy nations coming to KC — including the Netherlands, Tunisia, Ecuador, Curacao, and Algeria, which will play twice. Argentina and superstar Lionel Messi open their title defense against Algeria in Kansas City on June 16. The Dutch “Orange Army” arrives on June 25 when the Netherlands faces Tunisia, and Ecuador meets Curaçao on June 20. Algeria also returns for a second match on June 27. KC also hosts a Round of 32 match on July 3 and even a quarterfinal on July 11. There’s a real chance Kansas City could see a marquee matchup like Argentina versus Portugal, a game that would draw global attention. Kansas City will also host a Round of 32 match and a quarterfinal, with Portugal favored to come through. Tourism officials now expect World Cup visitors to stay an average of nine days — and believe the original estimate of 650,000 fans may be too low.
