Brazil Travel and Tourism Worldcup
Brazil is already a top five market for U.S. tourism and is projected to be a leading market for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. For U.S. destinations, the opportunity is clear: cater to a Brazilian audience to capitalize on those traveling for the World Cup and introduce yourself to a reliable perennial tourism market.
FIFA’s socioeconomic analysis projects that the 2026 tournament will generate US $30.5 billion in U.S. economic output, add US $17.2 billion to GDP, and create 185,000 jobs, much of it in tourism, hospitality, and event services. With matches in 11 U.S. cities, international arrivals will surge, filling hotels, boosting air travel, and driving spending on dining, shopping, and cultural attractions. Host cities alone could see up to 450,000 visitors and a net economic impact of $480 million, with Brazil playing a central role.
The numbers already confirm Brazil’s strength: 1.9 million Brazilians visited the U.S. in 2024, spending over $9 billion. They stay longer than most visitors (10+ days), spend heavily (over $5,000 per trip), and more than 86% are repeat travelers, often seeking new experiences beyond the basics. Robust international flight infrastructure from Brazil supports the expected increased number of tourists for the World Cup event.
To capture this demand, U.S. destinations should prepare now. The December 5th team draw will determine Brazil’s match, creating natural hubs for travel packages. Success will go to those who act early with Portuguese-language messaging, travel agent training, “Follow Team Brazil” itineraries, influencer and media partnerships, family-friendly programs, and curated leisure and shopping experiences.
Commercial Service Brazil and the U.S. Embassy can help host cities, hotels, shopping outlets, attractions, theme parks, airlines, and other companies prepare to engage Brazilian tourists. The Commercial Service Brazil team can connect U.S. destinations and attractions directly with Brazilian tour operators and travel agents, help find in-country representation, design tour packages, connect with new and legacy media, design “familiarization tours”, and educate travel agents on tourism offerings.
For more information on opportunities for U.S. companies, please contact Emanuelle De Nadal Luz emanuelle.denadal@trade.gov, Travel and Tourism Commercial Specialist, U.S. Commercial Service, São Paulo.