Messi Predicts a Spectacular 2026 World Cup as North America Gears Up for the Biggest Tournament Ever

Lionel Messi has seen and done it all — from lifting the World Cup in Qatar to transforming soccer in the United States — but the Argentine legend believes the best is yet to come. Speaking at the America Business Forum in Miami, the Inter Miami captain predicted that the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will be “something extraordinary.”

As FIFA prepares for the most ambitious tournament in history, featuring 48 teams for the first time, the sport’s global icon is now at the heart of its next big chapter, one that could define soccer’s rise in North America.

The 2026 edition will be the first World Cup ever hosted by three nations, and it’s already shaping up to be historic. Matches will be played in 16 cities across the continent, from New York and Los Angeles to Toronto and Mexico City, with the final expected to be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

Ticket prices have already become a hot topic among fans, with group-stage tickets starting at around $60 USD, and premium seats for knockout rounds expected to exceed $1,500 USD. FIFA expects the tournament to break all attendance and revenue records, with over 5 million tickets projected to be sold.

But beyond the numbers, the World Cup is also a cultural milestone. The U.S. soccer scene has exploded in popularity since Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami in 2023. His presence in Major League Soccer has attracted millions of new fans, boosted TV ratings, and even encouraged other top players to consider moves stateside.

“I have very high expectations that the World Cup is going to be something spectacular,” Messi said. “The passion for football here is growing fast. The stadiums, the cities, the people — everything will be on another level.”

It’s a far cry from 1994, the last time the U.S. hosted the event, when soccer was still fighting for recognition. Now, thanks to stars like Messi and major investments in MLS, the country has become a thriving football hub.

Messi’s influence extends far beyond the pitch. Since joining Inter Miami, the Argentine has become a marketing phenomenon, helping the MLS sign new sponsorship deals, sell out stadiums, and attract record-breaking viewership. His jersey sales surpassed $100 million USD in the first year alone, an impact not seen since David Beckham’s arrival in 2007.

FIFA officials are keenly aware of Messi’s role in boosting the sport’s popularity across the continent. They hope that his continued involvement in U.S. football — and possibly his participation in the World Cup — will drive unprecedented global interest in the tournament.