Official FIFA World Cup 2026 Host City Poster Collection. Toronto, Canada - June 12, 2025.


Sports aficionados and facility managers alike are preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Held from June to July, across 11 U.S. cities, with an estimated 150,000 attendees, a rising concern is the risk of travel-associated infections. In anticipation of this possible “super spreader” event, a U.S. public health task force is prioritizing infection prevention.

According to a study, the top 10 infection outbreaks that could occur from this highly attended sporting event are hepatitis A, norovirus, E. coli, measles, COVID-19, influenza, tuberculosis, mpox, HIV and other STIs, and multi-drug resistant bacteria. The greatest risks of their transmission are human contact, food and beverages, and airborne contaminants. International and domestic travelers will unknowingly rely upon facility managers and building service contractors (BSCs) to ensure that the airports, hotels, stadiums, and other public spaces are clean and safe environments for them to occupy.

Infection prevention and control (IPC) protocols must be adhered to in every city. Amid current global outbreaks—hantavirus in Europe, Ebola in Africa, and measles in the U.S.—local public health departments are reviewing and ensuring rigorous compliance to mitigate possible risks. In fact, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has created and launched an online site to promote public hygiene by addressing disease and inclement weather challenges and solutions.

Stadiums are preparing for the World Cup by elevating their cleaning systems. In Dallas, the AT&T Stadium will implement a waste management program that aligns with its sustainability goals—limiting single-use plastics and food waste while promoting recycling and composting. Georgia’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium utilizes digital work-order systems to support janitorial operational efficiency by providing real-time feedback.

This effort to protect the public goes beyond site-by-site specific systems. To enhance security and health screenings, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) allotted $625 million in grant funding to the hosting cities. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) launched its own data dashboard to track health information pertaining to the World Cup. These online tools and technologies support communication and education efforts that may aid in mitigating diseases.

Learn more about techniques in carrying out infection prevention practices here.