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Book Flights to USA World Cup 2026

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Book flights to the USA for the 2026 World Cup

The 2026 World Cup is set to be the biggest yet. For the first time ever, it’s being shared across three countries: the USA, Canada and Mexico. With 48 teams, 16 host cities and millions of fans expected, this is more than just a football tournament. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Whether you’re flying in from across the world or planning a multi-city trip to catch a game or two, we’re here to help you get there.


Update:

The group stage match schedule has now been confirmed. Below, you’ll find tables showing where each game will take place across the USA, along with the closest airports and travel times to each host city stadium - everything you need to start planning your World Cup flights.

Miami skyline at sunset

Host cities in the USA

The USA is going big for the 2026 World Cup with 11 cities across the country set to host matches. From coast to coast, each location brings its own vibe, sights and stadium experience. If you’re after beaches, BBQ or skyscraper views, there’s a city (and match ticket) with your name on it.

Here’s where the action will be:

  • Atlanta, Georgia - Mercedes-Benz Stadium
  • Boston, Massachusetts - Gillette Stadium (Foxborough)
  • Dallas, Texas - AT&T Stadium (Arlington)
  • Houston, Texas - NRG Stadium
  • Kansas City, Missouri - Arrowhead Stadium
  • Los Angeles, California - SoFi Stadium (Inglewood)
  • Miami, Florida - Hard Rock Stadium
  • New York/New Jersey - MetLife Stadium (East Rutherford)
  • Philadelphia, Pennsylvania - Lincoln Financial Field
  • San Francisco Bay Area, California - Levi’s Stadium (Santa Clara)
  • Seattle, Washington - Lumen Field

Group stage matches hosted in the USA

If you're planning to catch the action live in the United States, here's when and where the group stage matches will be played.

Use the table below to see who's playing, when and where, and start planning your travel around the fixtures that matter most to you!

Date Teams Playing Stadium
12 June 2026USA vs Paraguay Top-pick matchSoFi Stadium, Inglewood
13 June 2026Haiti vs ScotlandGillette Stadium, Foxborough
13 June 2026Brazil vs Morocco Top-pick matchMetLife Stadium, East Rutherford
13 June 2026Qatar vs SwitzerlandLevi's Stadium, Santa Clara
14 June 2026Ivory Coast vs EcuadorLincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
14 June 2026Germany vs CuraçaoNRG Stadium, Houston
14 June 2026Netherlands vs JapanAT&T Stadium, Arlington
15 June 2026Saudi Arabia vs UruguayHard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens
15 June 2026Spain vs Cape VerdeMercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
15 June 2026Iran vs New ZealandSoFi Stadium, Inglewood
16 June 2026France vs Senegal Top-pick matchMetLife Stadium, East Rutherford
16 June 2026IC Path 2 Winner vs NorwayGillette Stadium, Foxborough
16 June 2026Argentina vs Algeria Top-pick matchArrowhead Stadium, Kansas City
17 June 2026England vs Croatia Top-pick matchAT&T Stadium, Arlington
17 June 2026Portugal vs IC Path 1 WinnerNRG Stadium, Houston
18 June 2026UEFA Path D Winner vs South AfricaMercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
18 June 2026Switzerland vs UEFA Path A WinnerSoFi Stadium, Inglewood
19 June 2026Brazil vs HaitiLincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
19 June 2026Scotland vs MoroccoGillette Stadium, Foxborough
19 June 2026UEFA Path C Winner vs ParaguayLevi's Stadium, Santa Clara
19 June 2026USA vs AustraliaLumen Field, Seattle
20 June 2026Ecuador vs CuraçaoArrowhead Stadium, Kansas City
20 June 2026Netherlands vs UEFA Path B WinnerNRG Stadium, Houston
21 June 2026Uruguay vs Cape VerdeHard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens
21 June 2026Spain vs Saudi ArabiaMercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
21 June 2026Belgium vs IranSoFi Stadium, Inglewood
22 June 2026France vs IC Path 2 WinnerLincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
22 June 2026Argentina vs AustriaAT&T Stadium, Arlington
23 June 2026England vs GhanaGillette Stadium, Foxborough
23 June 2026Portugal vs Uzbekistan Top-pick matchNRG Stadium, Houston
24 June 2026UEFA Path A Winner vs QatarLumen Field, Seattle
25 June 2026Curaçao vs Ivory CoastLincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
25 June 2026Ecuador vs GermanyMetLife Stadium, East Rutherford
25 June 2026Japan vs UEFA Path B WinnerAT&T Stadium, Arlington
25 June 2026Tunisia vs NetherlandsArrowhead Stadium, Kansas City
25 June 2026UEFA Path C Winner vs USASoFi Stadium, Inglewood
26 June 2026Egypt vs IranLumen Field, Seattle
26 June 2026Cape Verde vs Saudi ArabiaNRG Stadium, Houston
27 June 2026Panama vs EnglandMetLife Stadium, East Rutherford
27 June 2026Croatia vs GhanaLincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
27 June 2026Algeria vs AustriaArrowhead Stadium, Kansas City
27 June 2026Jordan vs ArgentinaAT&T Stadium, Arlington
27 June 2026Colombia vs Portugal Top-pick matchHard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens
27 June 2026IC Path 1 Winner vs UzbekistanMercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta

Airports near the host city stadiums

Each US host city is served by a major international airport, making it easy to fly in from around the world or hop across states if you’re already nearby.

Check out the table below to see which airport you can fly to for each US world cup match.

Stadium & City Recommended Airports Recommended Airlines Travel Time From Airport
MetLife Stadium - New York/New Jersey John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) Delta, JetBlue, American, United ~30 mins by train or shuttle
SoFi Stadium - Los Angeles Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) Delta, United, American ~30 mins by car
AT&T Stadium - Dallas Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) American, Spirit, Delta ~20 mins drive
Hard Rock Stadium - Miami Miami International Airport (MIA) American, Delta, United ~25 mins by car
Mercedes-Benz Stadium - Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) Delta, Southwest, American World’s busiest airport (~15 mins drive)
NRG Stadium - Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) United, American, Spirit ~25 mins drive
Gillette Stadium - Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) JetBlue, Delta, American ~1 hour to Foxborough
Lincoln Financial Field - Philadelphia Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) American, Frontier, Delta ~20 mins by car
Levi’s Stadium - Bay Area San Francisco International Airport (SFO) United, Alaska, Delta ~45 mins by rail or shuttle
Lumen Field - Seattle Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) Alaska, Delta, United ~30 mins drive
Arrowhead Stadium - Kansas City Kansas City International Airport (MCI) Southwest, Delta, American ~30 mins drive

Flight options to the USA for the 2026 World Cup

It doesn't matter whether you're crossing oceans or coming from nearby - there’s no shortage of flight options to get you to the World Cup. With 11 host cities across the States, chances are there’s a major airport not far from the action. Keep reading to find out more!

Two model planes with a yellow background

Direct vs. connecting flights ✈️

If you're flying from Europe, South America or Asia, you'll find direct flights into major US cities like New York, Los Angeles, Miami and Dallas. These are often the easiest options if you’re heading to matches in those cities or nearby.

But if you’re flying to a smaller host city or looking for a cheaper fare, a connecting flight might be the way to go. Many travellers choose to land in a major hub and take a short domestic flight to their final destination.


Multi-city flights 🏙️

Planning to follow your team across the USA? Book a multi-city flight to fly into one host city and out of another - perfect if you’re seeing matches in different places. It’s often cheaper than booking separate one-way tickets and saves you looping back.

Use our multi-city search tool to build your route, and pay your way with 20+ flexible payment plans like Klarna, Afterpay and Affirm.

A Delta Air Lines aircraft taking off

Global airlines flying to the US World Cup

Major US hubs like New York (JFK), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA) and Dallas (DFW) are served by the world’s leading international airlines. Whether you're flying from Europe, Asia, South America or beyond, you'll have loads of choices when it comes to routes, airlines and cabin options.

Some of the biggest international airlines flying to the US include:

Flying in from Canada or Mexico? You'll also find great short-haul options with WestJet, Air Canada, Aeroméxico and Volaris.

Don’t forget - when you book with us, you can filter flights by airline, compare prices easily and choose from 40+ flexible ways to pay.

Best Fare Finder calendar

Booking tips for World Cup fans

With millions of fans heading to the USA, Canada and Mexico for the 2026 World Cup, flights will fill up fast and prices will only go one way. But don’t stress - here’s how to stay ahead of the crowd and book smart:

  • Book early...really early. Once your match tickets or travel plans are locked in, don’t wait. Flight prices will climb as demand surges, especially around big match days and weekends. At Alternative Airlines, you can book now and pay later with Klarna, Afterpay, Affirm and more.
  • Keep your travel dates flexible. If you can, search with flexible travel dates. Flying a day or two before or after a match can help you avoid peak prices and packed airports. Use our filters to compare fares across different days and airlines in seconds.
  • Consider flying into a nearby city. Can’t find a decent fare to your match city? Try flying into a nearby hub with better flight options, then take a short domestic flight, train or drive. For example, Philadelphia and New York are just a couple of hours apart.
  • Midweek flights = lower fares. Tuesdays and Wednesdays usually mean cheaper flights. If your schedule allows, it’s a simple way to cut costs.
  • Pay in a way that works for you. We get that booking flights can be a big expense. That’s why we let you spread the cost your way. Pick from 40+ payment options - whether you want to pay monthly, in 30 days or in three. You’re in control.
Southwest Airlines plane at dusk

Transportation within the USA

Once you’ve landed, getting around the USA is part of the adventure. With host cities spread across the country, domestic flights are the quickest way to hop between matches and there are loads of options from major carriers like Delta, American Airlines and United, plus budget-friendly picks like Southwest and JetBlue.

Planning to visit more than one city? Multi-city flight bookings are a great way to build your travel plan and save time. You can book it all in one go and avoid the hassle of booking separate one-way flights.

For shorter trips, trains and buses can be a great shout:

  • Amtrak connects cities like New York, Philadelphia and Boston.
  • Coach services like Greyhound and FlixBus run routes nationwide.

In most cities, rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft are the go-to for getting to and from stadiums, hotels and airports. Some cities also offer light rail or metro systems which are handy for skipping traffic on match days.

USA World Cup travel considerations

The 2026 World Cup isn’t just about football - it’s also a chance to explore new places, try new food and soak up the atmosphere. But before you get swept up in match-day fever, there are a few important things to check off your list.


Visa requirements 💳

If you're travelling to the USA, you might need a visa or a travel authorisation.

  • From a visa waiver country? Apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before you go. It’s quick and easy, but don’t leave it until the last minute.
  • From elsewhere? You’ll likely need a visitor visa (B1/B2). Check the official U.S. embassy site for your country’s rules and apply early.
  • Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date.


Travel Protection🛡️

This one’s not optional. Medical care in the US can be pricey, and delays or lost luggage can ruin more than just your travel plan. The right policy can save you a serious headache and a serious bill. Look for a policy that covers:

  • Medical emergencies
  • Trip cancellations
  • Delayed or missed flights
  • Lost or stolen bags
  • Ticket protection (some providers now cover event-related bookings)
  • Cancellation protection - for peace of mind if plans change last minute

You can also add Cancellation Protection when booking flights with us, giving you the option to cancel for an emergency reason and get some money back. It’s a smart move, especially if your plans aren’t set in stone yet.


Matches + sightseeing 🌆

Match days are big, but don’t forget to leave space in your travel plan for everything else. Each host city in the United States has something different to offer - from beach days in Miami to coffee walks in Seattle. A few quick tips:

  • Plan match days early. Know your stadium, transport options and nearby accommodation.
  • Build in rest days. Don’t book back-to-back travel if you can help it.
  • Look for local experiences. Food markets, museums or just a good viewpoint.
  • Fan zones & public screenings. Many cities will host official events with big screens, DJs and food trucks.

Ready to book your World Cup trip in the USA?

Skip the stress and start your journey here. Search flights to the USA, compare over 600 airlines and spread the cost with flexible payment options.

Whether you're heading to one host city or planning a multi-stop tour, we’ll help you build the perfect travel plan.

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FAQs

When should I book my flight to the USA for the World Cup?

We recommend booking your flight to the USA for the World Cup as early as possible, ideally 6 to 9 months before kick-off. Demand will be sky-high, especially around major match cities, so locking in your travel plan early gives you the best chance of grabbing a good deal and picking the flights that suit you.

Plus, with over 40 ways to pay, including flexible options to spread the cost, you can secure your seat without feeling the pinch. Whether you’re flying in for the opener or the final, early booking means less stress, better prices and more choice.

Can I pay for my flight in instalments?

Absolutely, with Alternative Airlines, you can pay for your flight in instalments and spread the cost over time. We partner with the world’s leading flexible payment providers like Afterpay, Klarna, Affirm and Zip, so whether you’re booking early or going last-minute, you’ve got options.

At checkout, just choose the plan that works best for you. You could split the cost into smaller monthly payments, pay in 4 or delay payment entirely, depending on what’s available where you live.

So if you’ve got your heart set on catching the 2026 World Cup in the USA, you don’t need to pay it all upfront. Secure your fare, choose your seat and pay at a pace that suits you.

Do I need a visa to travel to the USA?

Yes, depending on where you’re flying from, you may need a visa to travel to the USA for the 2026 World Cup.

If you're from a country that's part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you can apply for an ESTA - that’s short for Electronic System for Travel Authorisation. It’s a quick online form that most travellers use to visit the States for up to 90 days. Just make sure you apply at least 72 hours before your flight.

If your country isn’t in the VWP, you’ll need to apply for a B-2 tourist visa, which can take longer, so it’s worth sorting this out well in advance.

Your passport also needs to be valid for the duration of your stay.

Which US cities are hosting matches?

Sixteen cities across North America are hosting matches during the 2026 World Cup - and 11 of those are in the United States. From coast to coast, the US cities stepping up include Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco Bay Area and Seattle.

Each city will host a mix of group stage and knockout games, with the final set to be played at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. These cities were picked for their stadiums, infrastructure and fan experience, so wherever you land, expect a proper football atmosphere.

If you're planning your trip around the matches, it's worth checking which cities are hosting your team early on. And with plenty of direct and connecting flights available, it’s easy to catch multiple games in different cities. You can even spread the cost of your flights with flexible payment options when you book with us.

Can I fly into one city and leave from another?

Yes, you can fly into one city and leave from another. It’s called an open-jaw ticket, and it’s perfect for travelling between World Cup cities without doubling back. For example, you might land in New York to catch a group stage game, then fly out of Los Angeles after the final.

When booking, just select “multi-city” and enter your arrival and departure airports. It’s a smart way to save time and see more of the USA (or Canada and Mexico too).

We work with over 600 airlines and let you mix and match flights easily. Plus, with flexible payment options, you can spread the cost.

So go ahead and plan that cross-country football road trip. Fly in where the action starts and fly out wherever your World Cup ends.

Are domestic flights available between host cities?

Yes, domestic flights will be widely available between host cities during the 2026 World Cup. With matches spread across major cities in the USA, flying is often the quickest and easiest way to get around, especially if you’re planning to catch multiple games in different locations.

In the US, airlines like American, Delta and United offer frequent flights between key host cities like New York, Los Angeles, Dallas and Atlanta.

Flight times between cities vary but are generally short - around 2 to 4 hours between most major venues. If you’re booking multiple flights, you can spread the cost with one of our flexible payment options.

Just remember to check baggage allowances and give yourself enough time to get through security. Airports will be busier than usual during the tournament.

Will flight prices go up closer to the tournament?

Yes, flight prices are likely to rise the closer we get to the 2026 World Cup. As demand grows, especially for popular match days and host cities, airlines tend to increase fares. Big tournaments mean big crowds, and seats can sell out fast, particularly on direct routes and around major fixtures.

That said, you’ve still got options. Booking early gives you the best chance at locking in a lower fare. With Alternative Airlines, you don’t need to pay the full amount upfront. Thanks to our flexible payment options, you can spread the cost and secure your seat now, without waiting for payday.

If you’re planning on city-hopping between matches, it’s also worth looking at internal flights sooner rather than later. Domestic routes may fill up quickly once the match schedule is confirmed.

So in short - yes, prices may rise, but planning ahead (and paying later) can keep things stress-free.

Is it safe to travel to the USA?

Yes, it’s generally safe to travel to the US for the World Cup 2026. But like any big global event, there are a few things worth knowing before you go.

  • Visas - If you’re from a Visa Waiver country like the UK, you can skip the long visa queues. But if you're travelling from a country that needs a US visitor visa, delays can stretch up to 800 days. So, start your travel plan early and check your visa status as soon as you can.
  • Flights - The US is expecting a spike in international visitors, and its airports may struggle to keep up. Old infrastructure, staffing issues and tighter security could mean longer waits and delays. Keep your travel plans flexible and consider refundable options.
  • As for safety on the ground, there are no specific threats to the tournament, but with today’s global climate, it’s smart to stay up to date with official travel advice.

💡Top tips:

  • Sort your visa early if needed
  • Book flights and stays with flexibility
  • Keep an eye on travel advisories

With the right preparation, you’ll be all set to enjoy every goal, chant and cheer!