Squad Goals

Even if you don’t know a “false nine” from a “big four,” you know the World Cup is a very big deal. This week, the 2026 Cincy Local Organizing Committee is hosting the FIFA and US Soccer Delegation for a site visit of Paul Brown Stadium, soccer training facilities and Fan Fest locations.

Cincinnati is one of 17 U.S. cities vying to host FIFA World Cup in 2026 with 10-11 American cities to be chosen in early 2022. In 2026, the field of teams will expand from 32 to 48 making it the largest sporting event in the world.

On Friday, Oct. 22, the 2026 Cincy LOC will hold a free Street Festival on Freedom Way at The Banks to encourage the community to welcome FIFA to Cincinnati.

The first 500 who register at 2026Cincy.com will receive two free tickets to the FCC match on Nov. 7, be eligible to win two free tickets to USA vs. Mexico on Nov. 12 and get a free Soccer City commemorative T-shirt.

The community is encouraged to wear their favorite soccer jersey or red, white and blue gear.

The schedule of events:

2 p.m. – Free LaRosa’s pizza on Walnut at Freedom Way, first beer free (21+) at the Moerlein Lager House, live music by the Cincinnati Music Accelerator and the DORA District at The Banks is open

2:45 p.m. – FC Cincinnati supporters gather at Walnut and Freedom to march the 32 country flags of the last World Cup played in 2018 to Paul Brown Stadium. All welcome to join the march

3–3:30 p.m. – FIFA Press Conference at Paul Brown Stadium, Gate D, at Elm Street

3–5 p.m. – 2026 Cincy Street Party continues