On Tuesday, March 18, the Miami-Dade County Commission granted preliminary approval to allocate $10.5 million in funding for next year’s FIFA World Cup. With a favorable vote of 9 to 3, commissioners approved the measure in the first reading. It must still be discussed in committee before returning to the full commission for final approval.
The discussion surrounding this issue focuses on evaluating the benefits of this additional investment, which some analysts believe could generate a significant economic impact comparable to that of seven Super Bowls.
Supporters of the measure maintain that the 2026 World Cup represents a key investment for the growth and consolidation of the tourism sector, as it will attract a significant influx of international visitors. On the other hand, opponents of the project question the justification for allocating more resources to an organization that already enjoys solid financial stability.
The approved allocation of additional funds is part of a broader financial plan designed to support the international sporting event, which has mandated that several of its funds be held in the county.
Miami-Dade County had previously allocated $25 million to FIFA to cover critical expenses such as public safety services, including police and firefighters, in addition to an initial cash contribution of $10.5 million.
With the recent approval, the total amount of the county’s financial support would reach $46 million, representing a significant increase over the initial commitments.
Commissioner Oliver Gilbert also supported the allocation of additional funds, explaining that the money will come from reserve funds, which will be repaid later. “Our business is tourism, which means we need to attract people and make sure they stay,” Gilbert stated.
Hard Rock Stadium, home of the Miami Dolphins, will host a total of seven games over a five-week period during the World Cup. According to the organizing committee, this event will generate an economic impact estimated to be comparable to that of seven editions of the Super Bowl, reflecting the magnitude of the competition and its potential to stimulate the local economy.
It is worth noting that, in early March 2025, the White House announced the creation of a working group under President Donald Trump to coordinate the details for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. This team will seek to ensure the success of the event, from infrastructure to security, and is expected to positively impact the U.S. economy.
