House passes $100 million to support transit for World Cup host cities
The House of Representatives passed $100 million on Thursday to help transit agencies cover costs in the 2026 World Cup host cities.
Kansas Rep. Sharice Davids made the announcement. She is also the founder and co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional FIFA World Cup 2026 Caucus.
“With the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to be the largest sporting event in history, this $100 million investment ensures fans can get to every match safely and efficiently,” said Davids.
“But it’s also about more than just moving people, it’s about supporting local communities, strengthening transit systems for generations to come and making sure this historic tournament leaves a lasting benefit long after the final whistle.”
The Fiscal Year 2026 spending bill for Transportation, Housing and Urban Development consisted of $100,250,212 for “eligible planning, capital and operating expenses for equipment and facilities in support of matches or other public events held in domestic host cities for the FIFA World Cup 2026.”
FOX4 recently confirmed Argentina, England, the Netherlands and Algeria are all expected to base their World Cup camps in the Kansas City area.
The world’s biggest sporting event is expected to provide a direct economic impact exceeding $653 million and bring in over 650,000 visitors.
On Thursday, the Johnson County Board of Commissioners also finalized the allocation of $230,000 for housing 70 out-of-town bus drivers at MidAmerica Nazarene University for the event.
“Johnson County is proud to pilot two new transit routes that will maximize the community and economic benefits of FIFA World Cup 2026 by connecting residents and visitors to the unique retail, dining and entertainment destinations in the County,” Chairman of the Johnson County Board of County Commissioners Mike Kelly said following Davids’ announcement.
The decision to provide this money for transit support comes after Davids hosted a briefing on Capitol Hill regarding federal support for transit agencies.
“KCATA has been proud to support Representative Davids’ efforts to secure transit funding for the FIFA World Cup since she founded the bipartisan Congressional FIFA World Cup 2026 Caucus,” said Reginald Townsend, Board Chairman of the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority.
“Her leadership and persistence will help ensure the Kansas City region can deliver the expanded, reliable transit service needed to safely move residents and visitors during the summer of 2026, while supporting local businesses and maximizing the World Cup’s regional economic impact.”