Local and national governments rally behind Miami’s participation in United 2026 World Cup bid

As the announcement of the 2026 FIFA World Cup bid draws close, both local and national governments are showing support for the United 2026 bid, and specifically support for Miami participating in the process.

Last week, Florida senators Bill Nelson and Marco Rubio co-sponsored a Concurrent Resolution in the Senate with the goal of “recognizing and supporting the efforts of the United Bid Committee to bring the 2026 Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup competition to Canada, Mexico, and the United States.”

“Being a World Cup host city is a really big deal,” Nelson said in a statement on his Senate website. “It could provide an economic jolt to both Orlando and Miami while also allowing them to showcase all they have to offer to a huge international audience. That’s why we’re going all out to make this happen.”

“The World Cup provides a unique opportunity to bring people from across the world together to showcase a shared passion and deepen relationships,” Rubio said in the statement. “I am proud to express my support for the United Bid by the United States, Mexico and Canada, and believe it provides an incredible opportunity for the United States to generate increased goodwill and cultural development.”

Rep. Kathy Castor of Tampa cosponsored a similar resolution in the House of Representatives, which passed in April.

Locally, Miami-Dade County has organized a advertising campaign on social media highlighting the county’s eagerness to host World Cup matches, and emphasizing its partnership with individuals and local businesses. County mayor Carlos A. Gimenez appears at the end of the video.

Miami-Dade County is ready to welcome the @FIFAWorldCup. One event. Three nations. United as One for the ultimate soccer experience. @United2026 #United2026 #OurCounty pic.twitter.com/nfSVt3Z3TH

— Miami-Dade County (@MiamiDadeCounty) June 7, 2018

Miami is one of 23 cities included in the United 2026 bid book. The host of the World Cup will be announced around 6 am EDT on June 13.