2026 World Cup Bid

Although we learned that our 2026 Cincy bid effort to host 2026 FIFA World Cup matches has fallen short, we are immensely proud of the five-year effort the region put forth during the bid process. The Cincinnati region put its best foot forward on behalf of the Midwest, with the collective delegation comprised of more than 100 state, regional and local business and legislative leaders coming together to represent Cincinnati to FIFA and U.S. Soccer on the world stage. On behalf of the REDI Cincinnati team, I would like to thank the Local Organizing Committee for their leadership and for allowing me the opportunity to participate in the bid, it was truly an honor.

While it was not the outcome we had hoped for, this extensive work—which was innovative, collaborative and inclusive—surely positions Cincinnati for future opportunities to host sporting events. We will use all the valuable information and lessons learned to build a successful plan for future Host City opportunities.

Please join me in congratulating the great American cities chosen to host 2026 FIFA World Cup. We will be cheering them and our country on for success in 2026.

Go U.S.A!

Kimm Lauterbach, REDI Cincinnati President & CEO