Now that the World Cup is over, can host cities turn their investment into a lasting social impact?

Studies suggest that, played right, hosting large sporting events can pay lasting noneconomic dividends. But it needs sustained effort.

By: Yuhei Inoue, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign; Alessio Norrito, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and Yohan Lee, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: July 20, 2026

Words: 1,269

Last Updated: 1 month ago

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By Yuhei Inoue, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign; Alessio Norrito, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and Yohan Lee, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

The 2026 World Cup has been a real moneymaker for FIFA. Revenues from TV broadcasting rights, ticket sales and other commercial sources are projected to amount to nearly US$11 billion, making it the most financially successful event in the international soccer governing body’s history.

But what about the cities that hosted the tournament’s games? …

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