The world’s biggest international soccer tournament is returning to North America in 2026, and Miami will be one of the most prominent host cities. Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens has officially been selected to host seven matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, making it one of the key venues in the expanded 48-team format.
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Why Seven Matches Is Significant
According to FIFA, Hard Rock Stadium will host seven World Cup matches, including both group-stage and knockout-round fixtures. This places Miami among the most important cities in the tournament. Hosting both early and late-stage matches means Miami will attract millions of international visitors, media coverage, and global fan attention.
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Projected Match Schedule for Hard Rock Stadium
Match Type Expected Stage of Tournament
Group Stage (x4) Mid-June 2026
Round of 32 (x1) Early July 2026
Quarter-final (x1) Mid-July 2026
Third-Place Playoff (x1) July 18, 2026
This mix of matches offers visiting fans a unique opportunity to see both early competition drama and high-stakes knockout action.
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Why Miami Was Chosen as a Host City
Miami is known for its global culture, international airport, tourism appeal, and passion for soccer. Hard Rock Stadium was a strong candidate because of its:
- Seating capacity of over 64,000
- Proven track record of hosting major global events such as Super Bowls, international soccer matches, Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix, and concerts
- Modern facilities, excellent hospitality infrastructure, and accessible location
Miami’s vibrant international community, especially its strong Latin American and European cultural ties, makes it an ideal home for World Cup matches.
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Hard Rock Stadium: A World-Class Venue
Hard Rock Stadium is located in Miami Gardens, Florida. The stadium has undergone more than $700 million in renovations and is designed to meet international tournament standards. It features:
- A partial roof structure for weather protection
- Wide concourses and modern fan amenities
- VIP hospitality experiences and technology-driven fan engagement
- Efficient access via airports, hotels, and transit links
With its modern upgrades and flexible layout, the stadium is equipped to handle the surge of visitors expected in 2026.
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Travel and Fan Experience Tips for Visitors
Accommodation:
Book hotels as early as possible. Popular areas include downtown Miami, Miami Beach, Aventura, and Fort Lauderdale.
Transportation:
Fans can access the stadium using rideshare services, shuttle buses, or rental cars. Parking passes will likely be available for matchday purchase.
Weather Considerations:
Miami in June and July is hot and humid. Visitors should plan for sun protection, hydration, and indoor rest during midday hours.
Local Attractions:
Between matches, fans can explore South Beach, Wynwood Arts District, Bayside Marketplace, Little Havana, and nearby coastal parks.
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Tickets and Match-Day Planning
FIFA’s official ticketing platform will release match-specific tickets closer to the tournament. Fans should monitor FIFA.com for release dates, hospitality packages, and venue-specific seat maps.