Play Spaces for a Global Tournament
Airbnb has committed $420,000 to construct four new soccer pitches in the heart of downtown Miami. The project is a key component of the company’s FIFA World Cup 2026 Host City Impact Program, which seeks to leave a lasting legacy for local communities. By working with the Miami Downtown Development Authority, the initiative will deliver free, safe venues where children and families can enjoy the sport.
The first pitch will open temporarily from June 27 through July 19, coinciding with the early stages of the tournament. Later, three permanent mini‑pitches will be established at 76 E Flagler Street, ensuring that the facilities remain available long after the World Cup concludes.
Jordi Torres, Regional Director for the Americas at Airbnb, said the pitches represent more than just a sporting venue; they are a commitment to the neighborhoods that will host visitors from around the world. Miami Mayor Eileen Higgins added that the investment helps reach residents across the city, providing recreational opportunities that might otherwise be scarce.
Ralph 'Rafael' Rosado, Miami Commissioner for District 4 and DDA Chairman, highlighted the unifying power of soccer, noting that the pitches will bring people together in a shared space. Commissioner Damian Pardo expressed pride that the first permanent site will be on Flagler Street, a location he described as a natural hub for community activity.
Beyond the physical spaces, Airbnb anticipates a substantial economic ripple effect. Hosts in and around Miami are projected to welcome roughly 31,000 guests during the tournament, generating an estimated $384 million in total economic output. This includes about $203 million of value added to GDP and nearly $20 million in host earnings.
The broader Airbnb Host City Impact Program earmarks $5 million for select projects in host cities, building on previous contributions that have funded new soccer pitches in California, New York, and New Jersey. These efforts underscore the company’s strategy of pairing major sporting events with tangible, community‑focused benefits.