In this article, you will get all the tips you need to attend the 2026 World Cup in USA, Canada and Mexico.
The World Cup in Qatar 2022 has barely ended, it is already time to organize the next one. The next World Cup will take place in 3 different countries: the United States, Canada and Mexico in June and July 2026. Here are our 4 tips to prepare for it and not miss the opportunity to attend!
How to prepare well for such an event?
For the first time in history, the World Cup will take place in three different countries, including the United States. It is necessary to plan your trip well, because several points are to be anticipated in order to be able to attend. You will have to book your plane tickets, your various accommodations and apply for an ESTA for the United States.
1. Plan your budget
The budget to plan to be able to support the blues depends on where you are leaving, but above all on the number of matches you plan to attend. In any case, you should book your tickets as soon as possible, as prices will quickly skyrocket.
Most of the budget to be planned will be for flights, travel, accommodation and of course tickets for the various matches. Although ticket prices are not yet known, expect a few hundred euros per game. It will also be necessary to plan a budget for food, cultural activities on site and the price of travel insurance.
2. Get health insurance!
Remember to take out health insurance for your trip, it’s essential! In the United States, the healthcare system is particularly expensive and could cost you even for a minor problem. Health insurance will protect you in a medical emergency and save you a lot of trouble.
Also remember to consult your doctor before the trip to make sure you are up to date on the vaccines recommended for your trip. And, last point, avoid drinking tap water, because it could make you sick.
3. Prepare the documents to have for the occasion
To travel from France to these three countries, several documents will be required. A valid passport will be required. Remember to check the expiration date of the latter if you have one. Apply well in advance if it will expire or if you don’t have one, as passport applications can take longer than six months in some departments. Mexico and the United States require a return ticket to grant you entry to their territory, so please remember to bring one to present on the day of your arrival. You will also have to think about ESTA for the United States.
4. Apply for an ESTA for the United States
The ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is a mandatory form for travelers from countries participating in the visa waiver program for the United States, of which France is a member. Once granted, it is valid for two years or until your passport expires. To apply for ESTA, you must complete an online ESTA application form and pay the fees. Once your request has been granted, you must print your ESTA authorization and keep it for the whole of your trip.
Remember to make your request in advance, because it takes at least 72 hours to be granted. Without proof, you risk having to go through more complex and longer administrative formalities and above all being refused boarding.
Please note, if you have visited a country on the US blacklist, or plan to visit one by then, you are no longer eligible for ESTA and you will need to apply for a visa.
Another important point, an ESTA authorization does not guarantee you access to American territory. It is a compulsory first step, but only the immigration officer at the border can decide whether or not you can return to the country.
Being able to attend the World Cup is an unforgettable experience for a football fan. By planning a realistic budget, preparing the necessary documents including ESTA and taking out health insurance adapted to your trip, you make sure you can leave safely and perhaps see the blues get their third star.
