There is every chance this year’s World Cup winners will be celebrating their triumph from Kansas City, with contenders England and reigning champions Argentina both based there for the summer’s football spectacular.
The city, which calls itself the “Soccer Capital of America”, is also playing host to the Netherlands and dark horses Algeria, with all four teams based in and around the Midwest metropolis for the 48-team tournament.
Kansas City was only awarded host-city status when it stepped in following Chicago’s withdrawal but it is big on the football scene, having invested almost $700million (£522m) in infrastructure, with MLS side Sporting Kansas City and NWSL outfit KC Current having purpose-built stadiums.
The Hendon Hall hotel in north London hosted England when they won the World Cup in 1966 but the Inn at Meadowbrook will be their home if Thomas Tuchel’s side add a second star to the shirt, with training based at Swope Soccer Village – the home of Sporting Kansas City’s second team.
The Football Association wanted the Compass Minerals National Performance Center to be England’s base, but lost out to Argentina due to the defending champions playing in the city.
Two of the six fixtures in Group J - which includes Lionel Scaloni’s side - will be played in Kansas City.
The Netherlands are using KC Current’s facilities while Algeria are based at the University of Kansas.
“We are delighted to welcome England,” the chief executive of KC2026, Pam Kramer, told PA. “The arrival of one of the world’s most followed national teams is a significant moment for our city.
“England’s decision to base themselves in Kansas City reflects our passionate sports culture, our spirit of hospitality and the world-class facilities that define our region. We are also proud to be hosting the Netherlands, Argentina and Algeria during the tournament, meaning four nations have chosen Kansas City as their home away from home.
“It is a powerful endorsement of the investments in our region and proof that the global game has become part of the fabric of life here.
“Kansas City has proudly earned its reputation as the Soccer Capital of America. Soccer has deep roots here.”
The city is also priding itself on embracing the tournament more than any other and believes its Fifa Fan Festival will be the best in the tournament.
Around 25,000 fans flocked to the site in the shadows of the WW1 Memorial and Museum to watch the United States’ opening match against Paraguay on Friday night, a sparkling 4-1 win for the tournament co-hosts.
Organisers have attracted big-name performers such as Flo Rida, Sheryl Crow and The Chainsmokers.
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