Infantino: FIFA to distribute 100,000 footballs across U.S. cities ahead of 2026 world cup

FIFA will distribute 100,000 footballs to 500 cities across the United States as part of efforts to generate nationwide excitement ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has announced, Sport360NG reports.

Infantino revealed the initiative while addressing delegates at the United States Conference of Mayors’ (USCM) Winter Meeting in Washington, D.C., where representatives from 500 member cities were in attendance.

Under the plan, each city will receive 200 footballs in the build-up to the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. According to information published on FIFA’s website on Sunday, the balls are intended for use at celebratory and community events leading up to the opening match on June 11, 2026.

The expanded tournament will feature 48 teams, 104 matches and 16 host cities spread across the three North American countries. FIFA has described the competition as a global celebration aimed at uniting people through football.

Infantino said he was pleased to engage with the mayors of the 11 U.S. host cities that will stage matches during the tournament, noting the unique character each city brings to what he described as a historic event. The 2026 edition will be the first World Cup to feature 48 teams.

Beyond the official host venues, several other cities are expected to play a key role as team base camps. Of the 64 proposed base camps submitted so far, 50 are located within the United States.

FIFA estimates that U.S. cities collectively stand to benefit from an economic impact of approximately $30 billion, driven by an anticipated influx of more than seven million fans from around the world.

Reacting to the announcement, USCM President and Mayor of Oklahoma City, David Holt, welcomed Infantino’s presence at the meeting, describing the donation of footballs to member cities as one of the highlights of the week.