American Airlines revealed on Thursday that it will be working with FIFA to provide flights and promotions to teams and supporters during the World Cup 2026.
The alliance is with American’s Oneworld partner, Qatar Airways. According to American, it is also giving its loyalty program members the opportunity to win World Cup tickets.
Airlines frequently have sports partnerships because they enable them to develop a devoted following among supporters of a team, player, or league. In order to rename the National Basketball Association’s in-season tournament the “Emirates NBA Cup,” Emirates signed a high-profile agreement with the league last year. In his role as a “strategic advisor,” seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady is associated with Delta Air Lines.
Airlines also profit from these partnerships. The Global Institute of Sport reported that the global sports industry brings in up to $2.65 trillion annually. In 2024, FIFA recorded $483 million in revenue.
Is the U.S. Prepared for the World Cup?
However, American’s partnership with FIFA arises as trade organizations express concerns about the U.S. readiness for the 2026 World Cup.
According to a U.S. Travel Association found, if travel infrastructure is not modernized, the United States may lose out on billions of dollars in tourism-related income. Within two years, the U.S. should lower visa wait times and install biometric systems at customs in all airports across the country, according to the report.
Concerns over holding the event have also grown as a result of the Trump administration’s intensified scrutiny of visas. According to several sources, U.S. tourists with visas have been held at customs.
In a post on X last month, the State Department said that demand to travel to the United States for the World Cup was at a “all-time high.” “We thoroughly screen every visa applicant to uphold the highest standards of public safety and national security,” the tweet continued. Apply as soon as possible if you require a visa in order to attend #FIFAWorldCup.
In March, President Donald Trump signed an executive order creating a task force to assist with World Cup preparations.
The United States, Canada, and Mexico will host the World Cup in 2026. According to an Associated Press story, despite growing tensions between the three nations, experts predict that they won’t affect World Cup participation.
