By NAN Sports Editor
News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. June 15, 2018: People of Canada, Mexico and the United States are looking forward to the 2026 World Cup that is to be jointly hosted in their home countries.
After Canada, Mexico and the United States won their joint bid to host the 2026 World Cup on Wednesday, many residents of Washington, D.C., were excited by the prospect.
“I think it’s interesting because Mexico is really big when it comes to soccer, but Canada and the U.S. aren’t really known for it as much, I think it is really cool to see that happening,” said a D.C. resident.
As it will be the first time that football’s flagship tournament will be hosted by three nations, some said the event may appeal to more people.
“As one, it demonstrates some unity across the different countries, so I think it’s huge just from where we are in terms of conflict across the globe. And two, it obviously increases the fan base, if everyone can claim that this is in fact their home country hosting it, it just increases the size of the population that may be interested in watching,” said a local resident.
Toronto’s Mayor, John Tory, said on Wednesday that it is the first time that the event will be played in Canada and the chance to co-host the World Cup will be a great opportunity for the country.
In Mexico, the first country to ever hold the World Cup three times, Mexicans cheered for the news in hopes that it will boost the economy and local tourism.
A resident of Mexico City said that this is a rare opportunity for Mexico and will bring revenue and drive tourism.
“Mexico will definitely be a good host. The simplest reason is that Mexicans are very hospitable. Mexico welcomes you. We will see you at the 2026 World Cup in Mexico,” said another local resident.
The 2026 World Cup will involve an expanded format, with 48 teams competing in a total of 80 matches, compared to the 32 teams and 64 matches of the upcoming World Cup in Russia.
The U.S. will host 60 of the 80 matches, including all of the quarterfinals, semifinals and the final. Mexico and Canada will stage 10 games each. (SOURCE: CCTV)</strong
