As the world's gaze slowly turns toward the 2026 World Cup, cities across North America are preparing to welcome the flood of soccer talent. Among these, San Antonio and Green Bay are emerging as notable candidates for Team Base Camp locations. These cities, though they won't be hosting actual matches, are crucial for hosting international teams for training and lodging.
In a statement obtained by Express News, FIFA has signaled San Antonio as a top prospect for such a hub. If chosen, teams will occupy the S.T.A.R. Soccer Complex and Toyota Field for training, with digs at the Kimpton Sando Hotel. It's a strategic pick, ideally positioned for teams playing Central Region matches in cities like Houston and Monterrey. World Cup COO Heimo Schirgi aptly pointed out “Even if a city is not staging matches, a participating team coming to stay creates a strong personal bond with the competition for people locally.”
Meanwhile, Green Bay is playing the same game. Lambeau Field, primarily the domain of cheeseheads and Packers, may switch out footballs for futbols as a base camp, as revealed by Biz Journals. Lodge Kohler stands by as the chosen accommodation, potentially giving players a taste of hospitality in the heart of Packers territory. "The (Green Bay) Packers are excited for Lambeau Field to be considered as a team base camp location for the FIFA World Cup in 2026," Green Bay Packers director of public affairs Aaron Popkey conveyed, signaling the organization's eagerness to take part in the global event.
Ultimately, qualifying teams will put in their preferences for base camps in late 2025, after the final draw.
