World Cup 2026 Miami host committee announces alliance between state, local politicians
It is not easy to get consensus on anything in South Florida, but one thing local politicians have agreed on: The 2026 World Cup is a huge deal, and it will take a united regional effort to pull it off successfully.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 Miami Host Committee on Wednesday unveiled an alliance between Florida state officials, city, and county leaders, establishing an executive advisory board.
Led by Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, the group includes Broward County Mayor Nan Rich, Palm Beach County Mayor Maria Sachs, Monroe County Mayor Holly Merrill Raschein, Miami Gardens Mayor Rodney Harris, Miami Mayor Francis Suarez, Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner and state Senator and MiamiDade Legislative Delegation Chairwoman Ana Maria Rodriguez.
The 2026 World Cup will be held June 11 to July 19 in the United States, Mexico and Canada. Seven matches will be played at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, including four group stage matches, a Round of 32 match, a Quarterfinal and the bronze medal game.
“With so many key functions involved in planning this event from the variety of accommodations and key venue preparation to coordination of transportation, security, health, and emergency response, as well as managing the arrival experience and diverse events associated with the World Cup, it will be necessary for South Florida to rise to the occasion as a united region to truly showcase how we work together to be the best hosts possible,” said Miami-Dade
County Mayor Levine Cava.
City of Miami Mayor Francis Suarez added: “Miami is poised to host some of the most impactful and colorful fan experiences that will draw thousands of people into world-class venues across our city to enjoy the spirit of the games. This board’s leaders are leading the Herculean charge on coordination and support for the world’s largest sporting event.”
Hard Rock Stadium has a long history of hosting Super Bowls and international soccer matches. This will be the biggest event yet.
“The game day World Cup 2026 experience in Miami-Dade County begins with Miami Gardens,” said Miami Gardens Mayor Rodney Harris. “I welcome this opportunity to provide counsel and leadership as a board member as we continue to shape our city’s role in defining what this event means to our community. Miami Gardens stands ready with a dedicated team of professionals to help ensure this event has a positive impact not only for our city, but for the entire region.”
Rodney Barreto, chairman and CEO of the Barreto Group, is co-chair of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Miami Host Committee, along with Beau Ferrari of NBC Universal.
“FIFA World Cup is yet another opportunity for South Florida to continue to showcase our interregional cooperation to accommodate special once-in-a-lifetime events,” said Broward County major Nan Rich. “Broward County is a sports and soccer-loving mecca, and our residents share the passion in supporting a game that transcends boundaries. We are enthusiastic about the opportunity to lend a hand.”
Monroe County Mayor Holly Merrill Raschein anticipates the Florida Keys being a tourist destination during the World Cup.
“There is no doubt in my mind that the Florida Keys and Key West will factor into the visits of thousands of fans to South Florida here to enjoy the World Cup. Monroe County welcomes the opportunity to extend our hospitality and available resources to make everyone feel welcome and make the most out of their experience.”
For information about volunteer opportunities and event updates, visit www.MiamiFWC26.com. Ticket sales for the 2026 World Cup are expected to begin in 2025. To receive information on how to apply for tickets, register at FIFA.com.