Hotels in the US have begun lowering room rates ahead of the World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico. Tourism industry representatives warn that factors such as excessively high ticket prices, concerns regarding inflation, and growing dissatisfaction with the US are driving fans away from the tournament.
elchi reports that, according to Lighthouse Intelligence data, room rates for match days in host cities such as Atlanta, Dallas, Miami, Philadelphia, and San Francisco have decreased by approximately one-third compared to the peak levels seen at the beginning of the year.
The expected influx of visitors has not occurred
Despite FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s 2024 forecast of “hundreds of thousands of visitors,” demand has fallen far below expectations.
Vijay Dandapani, president of the Hotel Association of New York City, stated that while there is an increase in visitor numbers, it is not at the “boom” level promised by FIFA.
According to CoStar data, FIFA’s cancellation of thousands of rooms reserved for technical staff and teams has led to significant vacancies in hotels during the periods between matches.
Key factors hindering reservations
Reactions to US President Trump’s immigration policies and the instability caused by the war with Iran are deterring foreign tourists.
According to Football Sponsors Europe, the cost for a fan following their team to the final is at least $6,900.
This figure is approximately five times higher than the previous tournament held in Qatar.
The energy crisis caused by conflicts in the Middle East is both heightening inflation fears and driving up airfare prices.
Şayəstə