IHG Says 2026 World Cup Could Reverse U.S. Tourism Slowdown, Reports Financial Times

The global hospitality industry may be heading into a powerful rebound phase — and sports could be the catalyst.

According to a recent report by the Financial Times, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) is forecasting that the 2026 FIFA World Cup — along with other major national celebrations — could help reverse the recent slowdown in U.S. tourism.

For hoteliers, investors, and destination marketers, this is more than just optimism. It’s a signal.

Why the 2026 World Cup Matters for U.S. Tourism

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with the U.S. expected to see significant inbound international visitation. Major gateway cities and secondary markets alike are projected to benefit from increased hotel bookings, extended stays, and elevated ADR (Average Daily Rate).

According to comments highlighted by the Financial Times, InterContinental Hotels Group sees the tournament as a major driver for:

• International travel demand recovery

• Group and leisure booking acceleration

• Increased global visibility for U.S. destinations

• Higher occupancy across branded hotel portfolios

IHG’s outlook reflects broader industry sentiment: large-scale global events create not only short-term booking spikes, but also long-term destination awareness.

Beyond the World Cup: A Perfect Storm of Demand Drivers

The 2026 calendar is stacked with additional momentum-builders, including the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence. Combined with a post-pandemic normalization of long-haul travel and improved airlift connectivity, these factors create a compelling setup for sustained tourism growth.

For the hospitality sector, that means:

• Stronger RevPAR projections

• Increased group and MICE demand

• More inbound travel from Europe and Latin America

• Elevated pricing power in host cities

What This Means for Hotel Owners & Operators

For hotel owners and asset managers, this forecast presents both opportunity and urgency.

Properties located in World Cup host cities should already be thinking about:

• Revenue management strategies for compression periods

• Operational readiness and staffing models

• Strategic partnerships and sponsorship tie-ins

• Long-lead group booking capture

Markets not directly hosting matches may also benefit from spillover demand, particularly resort destinations and leisure-focused regions connected by short-haul flights.

The Bigger Picture: A Confidence Shift in Hospitality

Perhaps the most important takeaway from the Financial Times coverage isn’t just the event itself — it’s the tone of confidence from one of the world’s largest hotel groups.

After a period marked by demand fluctuations and shifting international travel patterns, the narrative appears to be turning toward growth and stabilization heading into 2026.

For industry leaders, the question is no longer if demand will rebound — but how prepared they are to maximize it.