Football News
Why is Chicago—America’s 3rd largest city and a massive soccer hub—NOT hosting the 2026 World Cup?
Why is Chicago skipping the 2026 World Cup? While others begged FIFA, Mayor Emanuel read the fine print and walked away. From a $100M stadium roof demand to a contract fleecing taxpayers, here is why Chicago won by not playing.
Why is Chicago—America’s 3rd largest city and a massive soccer hub—NOT hosting the 2026 World Cup?
It boils down to a classic case of a mayor refusing to let FIFA fleece his city's taxpayers. A quick breakdown of how Rahm Emanuel saved Chicago millions:
Former Mayor Emanuel looked at FIFA's contract and realized it was a total scam.
The Costs: Cities pay for ALL security, transport, and medical bills.
The Profits: FIFA keeps 100% of ticket sales, broadcast, and parking revenue.
The Audacity: FIFA demanded ticket sales be tax-exempt, AND tried to force Chicago to write a blank check to potentially build a $100M roof over Soldier Field.
FIFA told Emanuel the roof clause was "just a formality." He told them to delete it. They refused, so he walked away.
Fast forward to 2026: ticket prices are skyrocketing past $1,000, and host cities are drowning in costs. Turns out, Chicago playing hard defense in 2018 was the ultimate win.