US Hotel Bookings for 2026 World Cup Lag 80% Below Forecasts, Visa Issues Cited

The American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) surveyed members in the eleven U.S. cities slated to host FIFA matches. The data, released with five weeks left before kickoff, shows a stark gap between projected and actual room reservations.

Key facts - Eighty percent of respondents report bookings tracking below their original forecasts. - About 65 percent attribute the shortfall to visa barriers and broader geopolitical concerns. - AHLA President Rosanna Maietta warned that early optimism has been tempered, but she sees “meaningful opportunity ahead” if travel hurdles are eased.

The survey covers markets from New York to Los Angeles. In Kansas City, occupancy for June and July sits below normal seasonal rates. Hoteliers in Boston, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Seattle described the tournament as a “non‑event,” reflecting the weak demand.

Visa policy under the current administration has tightened, with stricter vetting for visitors despite assurances to FIFA that ticket holders will receive assistance. The perception of a difficult entry process appears to be discouraging international fans, especially from regions where visa applications are already complex.

Geopolitical tensions add another layer of uncertainty, prompting travelers to postpone or cancel plans. The AHLA report also notes that early bulk room blocks reserved by FIFA were later cancelled, creating an artificial demand signal that has now evaporated.

What it means The hospitality sector faces a revenue shortfall that could ripple through local economies dependent on tourism. If visa processing remains cumbersome, hotels may continue to see empty rooms even as the tournament draws near. Industry leaders suggest that coordinated action by the U.S. government and FIFA to streamline entry could unlock the “meaningful opportunity” still present in the market.

Stakeholders will watch closely how visa policies evolve in the weeks leading up to the June 11 opening match in Mexico City and the July 19 final in New Jersey. A smoother travel experience could revive booking momentum and mitigate the current downturn.