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Prepare for Kansas City’s World Cup transformation

Stories by Kansas City Star journalists, with AI summarization

This collection of stories explores how Kansas City is preparing to transform for the 2026 World Cup, focusing on logistics, infrastructure, and local engagement.

Pam Kramer, the new CEO of KC2026, highlights the importance of collaboration and overcoming logistical challenges such as transportation and fan experiences, aiming to leave a lasting regional impact. One article discusses potential effects on local infrastructure and transit, especially with local politicians like Sam Graves potentially influencing federal support for transportation solutions. Another piece touches on the need for a strong legacy beyond the event, suggesting Kansas City's role in fostering equitable youth sports as a prime benefit of hosting the World Cup. Meanwhile, an opinion article suggests the World Cup could be a catalyst for increasing opportunities for young athletes, supporting initiatives like the Children's Bill of Rights in Sports. Read the stories below.

Pam Kramer is the new KC2026 CEO ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be played in North America.

NO. 1: WITH 693 DAYS (& COUNTING) TO 2026 WORLD CUP, NEW KC2026 CEO SAYS ‘EVERY DAY MATTERS’

In a Star exclusive, the new KC2026 leader spoke about her vision, transportation and Fan Fest for 2026 FIFA World Cup games in Kansas City. | Published July 17, 2024 | Read Full Story by Vahe Gregorian

NO. 2: HOW THE WORLD CUP CAN GIVE KANSAS CITY KIDS MORE OPPORTUNITY TO PLAY SPORTS | OPINION

More physical activity means better health and personal development. | Opinion | Published September 16, 2024 | Read Full Story by Jon Solomon

Chris Baldwin, center, chants with a crowd of fans at a World Cup watch party at the Power and Light District to see the USMNT take on Iran in the tournament on Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2022. By Emily Curiel

NO. 3: HOW A TRUMP CABINET CHOICE COULD AFFECT KANSAS CITY WORLD CUP EFFORT: A ‘HUGE BENEFIT’

President-elect Donald Trump is considering Rep. Sam Graves of Missouri to lead the U.S. Department of Transportation as Kansas City develops a transit plan for the 2026 World Cup. | Published November 13, 2024 | Read Full Story by Jonathan Shorman Daniel Desrochers Kacen Bayless

Kansas City soccer fans packed the KC Live! venue at the Power & Light District last summer and learned that the city would be one of the host locations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

NO. 4: AS KANSAS CITY READIES FOR 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP, THERE’S A VITAL VARIABLE TO SUCCESS

How is Kansas City preparing to host World Cup games in 2026? And what’s the next step? | Published December 20, 2024 | Read Full Story by Vahe Gregorian

Here’s the logo for the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2031 and Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2033 in the United States.

NO. 5: WHY STOP AT ONE WORLD CUP WHEN KANSAS CITY COULD HOST 3 OVER THE NEXT FEW YEARS?

The international Rugby World Cups are looking for U.S. host cities for the men’s and women’s tournaments in 2031 and 2033. | Published March 6, 2025 | Read Full Story by Blair Kerkhoff

LeRon Ford of Kansas City grills some meat at a tailgate before the Chiefs game vs. the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024, at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. By Dominick Williams

NO. 6: WHY ARROWHEAD STADIUM WON’T BE A TAILGATING DESTINATION FOR NEXT YEAR’S FIFA WORLD CUP

“If there is any (parking), which I think is still to be determined, it will be greatly reduced from what it is today.” | Published March 26, 2025 | Read Full Story by Blair Kerkhoff

The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories listed were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.