The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off June 12 in the U.S., with 78 matches across 11 cities, culminating in the final match on July 19 in New Jersey. For fans, the excitement is growing, but for cities and transportation agencies, the challenge will be to safely get spectators to and from the venues. International and out-of-town visitors may be unfamiliar with each host city’s transit system. Transit agencies may need to plan for additional trains, buses and operators. Cities will have to manage traffic congestion, dropoff and pickup locations for ride-hailing vehicles, and heightened security.

Many transit agencies see the World Cup as a way to showcase their rail and bus networks. Atlanta redesigned its bus network and launched a new bus rapid transit line; the Los Angeles County metro will open a subway extension in time for the matches and Seattle completed the final segment of its light rail line to bring riders to the downtown Seattle stadium. 

Here are six stories Smart Cities Dive reporters have followed, with more to come.