Why is Chicago—America’s 3rd largest city and a massive soccer hub—NOT hosting the 2026 World Cup?

Updated

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.

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.