World Cup In Miami

By Kymani Phillips

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, Miami has been preparing to take heed as one of the host cities, scheduled to host seven games, including the third-place match.

Miami, being known for its cultural diversity, is expected to deliver one of the most electrifying atmospheres in the United States. However, among Barry University students, excitement is mixed with a sense of distance.

Students at Barry University argue that Miami is best suited for such an event given its cultural diversity.

According to Tarique Louden, a sophomore majoring in computer science, countries such as Mexico, Colombia and Haiti are likely to dominate the event in Miami.

“Countries of Hispanic descent,” Louden said, “will bring a vibrant and almost over-the-edge type of energy to the games.”

Photo Credit: Wikipedia

In addition, Louden argued that compared to other cities in the United States, Miami is more immersed in the world soccer culture.

“Soccer is more watched in other nations outside America,” Louden said.

However, despite the confidence in the city as a venue, students have shown little affiliation with the event through their university.

"I haven’t heard anything promoting the World Cup at all, actually," said Mikayla Brooks, a sophomore and business major.

The lack of promotion has made students feel disconnected, or unaware even, of the world’s largest sporting event being hosted in their own backyard.

Louden stated, "Miami has hosted many events in the past. If they are allowed to host something as big as the World Cup by FIFA, then who am I to think otherwise?"

While the city’s readiness is widely accepted, the issue lies more in accessibility and relevance to students. Ticket prices are also expected to play a major role in accessibility. While it is not impossible to go and watch a game, it is not a priority for many.

“It is realistic, but I don’t think it’s worth it for me right now,” Brooks confessed.

While official prices have not been fully released, early projections suggest that group stage matches could range from around $100 to $300, while knockout rounds may climb significantly higher. Premium matches, including later-stage games, are expected to cost several thousand dollars depending on seating, demand and teams playing.

In Miami, all matches are scheduled to take place at Hard Rock Stadium, one of the more prominent venues in the country, located in Miami Gardens. While the stadium has experience hosting major national and international events, the combination of high demand and global attention is expected to drive prices up, making attendance less realistic for many college students.

However, students are looking at other alternatives to experience the tournament.

“Several of my friends would probably come together to watch a couple of the games, definitely the finals,” Jude Taylor, junior computer science major, said, implying the importance of shared experiences over stadium attendance.

The World Cup carries deeper cultural significance for many Miami residents because of the melting pot of cultures. Louden reflected on his Jamaican background and connection to the sport.

“Football is one of, if not the biggest, sport in Jamaica,” he said. “I grew up watching, playing and admiring the game since before I could kick a ball straight.”

Students also expect that it will be an intense environment, driven by emotion.

“It will be better, but more divided,” Jude said. Louden added, “Different fan bases screaming until their voice is hoarse, banging pots together, the chants…that means something.”

Beyond the local impact, several major storylines are already building heading into the tournament for casual and dedicated fans alike. One of the biggest involves Brazil and superstar Neymar, whose ongoing injury concerns have already raised serious doubts about his participation, a potentially massive loss for one of the sport’s most historic nations.

France continues to establish itself as a dominant force and enters the tournament as a favorite, while Argentina’s Lionel Messi, the reigning champion who defeated the powerhouse in the last finals, is expected to be playing in his final World Cup. At the same time, Cristiano Ronaldo is also set for his last opportunity to compete on soccer’s biggest stage, closing the chapter on one of the greatest players in soccer history.

The next generation of footballers is also expected to take center stage to further cement their place among the greats, with young talents such as Lamine Yamal, Jude Bellingham, and Jamal Musiala.

Lastly, countries such as Haiti will be a source of pride for both Miami residents due to its high immigrant population, as well as those rooting for smaller football nations.

Games being hosted in Miami:

Group Stage

June 15, 2026 – 6:00 PM (ET)

Saudi Arabia vs Uruguay

June 21, 2026 – 6:00 PM (ET)

Uruguay vs Cape Verde

June 24, 2026 – 6:00 PM (ET)

Scotland vs Brazil

June 27, 2026 – 7:30 PM (ET)

Colombia vs Portugal

Knockout Rounds

July 3, 2026 – 6:00 PM (ET)

Round of 32 match

July 11, 2026 – 5:00 PM (ET)

Quarterfinal

July 18, 2026 – Time TBD

Third-place match

Don’t Miss The Underlined Games!