As the U.S. prepares to host the FIFA World Cup, typically a sellout event, a surprising development is emerging for fans hoping to get tickets. A dramatic drop in foreign travel to the U.S., combined with newly proposed visa restrictions and fees, could lead to empty airline seats and hotel rooms, affecting ticket availability.

International arrivals are already projected to drop nearly 8% in 2026, and hotel occupancy projections in the 11 U.S. host cities are currently in single digits. Meanwhile, soccer demand is soaring in Canada and Mexico, where several matches will also be played.

For now, the U.S. remains a surprising bargain for fans, and non-soccer travelers may benefit from lower international airfares during the games.