Airbnb announced on May 5 a series of curated experiences for fans ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, which is less than 50 days away. The offerings aim to bring supporters closer to the tournament through unique opportunities such as meeting football legends, customizing official kits, and attending exclusive events.
The initiative matters because it gives fans new ways to engage with the World Cup beyond traditional match attendance. Airbnb has partnered with FIFA and notable football personalities to create these one-of-a-kind activities.
For the first time in three decades, former England captain Rio Ferdinand will attend the World Cup solely as a fan. He will host ‘The Ultimate Quarter-Final Getaway’ in Los Angeles for four winners and their guests during July 8–11. “Football has been my life, and there’s no bigger stage than the FIFA World Cup,” said Rio Ferdinand. “This summer’s a big one with Airbnb. We’re all about bringing fans closer than ever, premium access, big moments, straight from the US. And for me, it’s something new – I’ll be experiencing a World Cup as a fan for the first time in over 30 years. I can’t wait to get started.” Bookings open May 12 at airbnb.com/rioferdinand on a first-come basis.
Other featured experiences include customizing an official jersey with an Adidas designer starting May 20; joining US soccer legends Landon Donovan and Tim Howard behind-the-scenes at their podcast ‘Unfiltered Soccer’; training sessions with Ian Wright or Christen Press; playing matches on Miami Stadium’s pitch alongside MLS veterans Bradley Wright-Phillips and Lloyd Sam; and attending games with top Airbnb hosts in New York New Jersey, Los Angeles, or Mexico City. Tim Howard and Landon Donovan said: “At the height of world soccer, our exclusive Airbnb experience to celebrate the FIFA World Cup 2026 lets us open our doors to fans for a behind-the-scenes look into the Unfiltered Soccer podcast, sharing insider commentary and celebrating pivotal tournament moments together. We are incredibly grateful to be welcomed by these host city communities while traveling and staying on Airbnb and look forward to sharing this fan experience.”
In addition to marquee events tied directly to matches or celebrities, local experiences reimagined around football will also be available throughout host cities—ranging from street-style matches led by former pros in Mexico City to mural painting at Wynwood Walls in Miami or sneaker design workshops inspired by the tournament in New York City.
With millions expected to travel during this period—and searches up by approximately eighty percent—Airbnb hosts are preparing for increased demand among families and groups who represent more than half of current bookings related to the event according to the official website. The company enables hosts across more than two hundred twenty countries and regions worldwide offering various lodging options including entire homes or private rooms as well as guided tours or cooking classes according to its official website.
