06/04/2026
⚽ FIFA World Cup 2026: What Leavenworth County Residents Should Know ⚽
As excitement builds for the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Kansas City, we've heard many questions and misconceptions about how this international event may impact Leavenworth County. We wanted to take a moment to share some facts and provide clarity about what residents can expect.
❓ Will FIFA affect Leavenworth County?
Yes. Leavenworth County is considered a significant spillover area for World Cup activities. In addition to our proximity to Kansas City, we are located between multiple team base camp locations and transportation routes. Visitors, fans, and support personnel may be lodging, dining, shopping, and traveling throughout our community before, during, and after matches and Fan Fest events.
🏨 Will people actually be staying in Leavenworth?
Yes. While not every visitor will stay in Leavenworth County, lodging demand is expected throughout the region. World Cup attendees are anticipated to stay within a broad radius of Arrowhead Stadium, which includes Leavenworth County. Local hotels have already reported high occupancy rates, and visitor traffic is expected to increase during tournament activities.
🦠 What about communicable diseases?
Large international events naturally increase the importance of public health monitoring due to the volume of travelers arriving from different parts of the world. Our goal is to prepare, not alarm.
At this time, there are no unique disease threats specifically
associated with the FIFA World Cup. However, preparedness, surveillance, communication, and coordination remain important components of any large-scale event. No event can eliminate all risks, but effective planning helps reduce risks, improve response capabilities, and ensure agencies can adapt quickly if challenges arise.
Multiple local, regional, state, and federal partners have been engaged in preparedness efforts for many months.
🤝 What about human trafficking concerns?
Large events often generate concerns about human trafficking because they attract large crowds and increased tourism. It is important to separate facts from misinformation. Research on major sporting events has shown mixed evidence regarding significant increases in trafficking during these events. However, trafficking remains an issue year-round and should always be taken seriously.
Our focus is on public education and awareness, recognizing warning signs, interagency coordination, victim-centered response efforts, safe reporting of suspicious activity
To support these efforts, the Leavenworth County Health Department's Public Information Officer/Public Health Emergency Preparedness (PIO/PHEP) Coordinator, has developed a Human Trafficking Awareness Toolkit that can be utilized by local organizations, event planners, hotels, and community partners.
🏛️ Is there coordination happening in Leavenworth County?
Yes. Agencies and organizations across the county have been invited to participate in planning and coordination meetings. The Leavenworth County Health Department has been actively engaged in FIFA World Cup preparedness activities and continues to work alongside local, regional, state, and federal partners to support a safe and successful event.
📍 Will visitors even know about Leavenworth County?
Yes. Leavenworth County is already being promoted as part of the broader regional experience surrounding FIFA World Cup 2026. Visitors traveling to the Kansas City region will have access to resources that highlight lodging, attractions, dining, entertainment, and activities throughout the metropolitan area, including locations in Leavenworth County.
The KC2026 website and visitor resources provide valuable information for fans, tourists, and local residents looking to explore the region. These resources showcase a variety of destinations both within Kansas City and surrounding communities, helping visitors discover places to stay, eat, shop, and experience during their visit.
Our Commitment
Preparedness is not about creating fear, it is about ensuring our community is informed, coordinated, and ready. As additional information becomes available, we will continue to share updates and resources with the public.
Together, we can help make FIFA World Cup 2026 a safe and positive experience for residents and visitors alike.