New global marketing initiative will position Chicago as a must-visit destination for 2026 World Cup travelers
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contacts:
Isaac Reichman, ireichman@choosechicago.com, (312) 805-9586
Michelle Gonzalez, mgonzalez@choosechicago.com, (312) 259-5708
Chicago, IL (November 12, 2025) – As North America prepares to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Choose Chicago is inviting international visitors to “kick back” in a city that’s never done—and never outdone. With more than five million attendees expected, including many international fans planning multi-city trips, Choose Chicago is launching a new global marketing initiative to position Chicago as an essential stop on every World Cup traveler’s itinerary.
“While Chicago is not an official World Cup host city, our team has developed a strong strategy to ensure our city and our partners reap the economic benefits of the World Cup experience,” said Kristen Reynolds, President and CEO of Choose Chicago. “Our ‘Kick Back in Chicago’ campaign is designed to attract both fans traveling through the region on their way to matches and those seeking an escape from the congestion of other host cities. With our central location, easy access to all major airports via Midway and O’Hare, and world-class attractions, Chicago is perfectly positioned to welcome visitors looking to extend their stays—or enjoy the excitement from a comfortable distance.”
Research conducted by global travel partners shows that a significant number of European travelers plan to stay in the United States for up to two weeks during the tournament, with strong interest in exploring “halo cities” that are not hosting matches but are within easy reach of official venues. Many of these travelers seek simplicity and inspiration in trip planning—favoring curated itineraries, cultural experiences, and local recommendations that go beyond the games.
With its world-class culinary scene, vibrant neighborhoods, and diverse cultural offerings, Chicago offers the best of the U.S. in one unforgettable destination. And while Chicago is not hosting matches, its event calendar during summer 2026 will be filled with concerts, festivals, exhibitions, and celebrations—making it the perfect stop for visitors between match days. Convenient flight connections from nearby host cities such as Kansas City and Toronto further enhance Chicago’s appeal as an accessible and dynamic add-on destination.
To meet this global moment, ‘Kick Back in Chicago’ by Choose Chicago has created curated content for international visitors—including itineraries by interest, neighborhood guides, travel tips, and updates on major 2026 events taking place during tournament dates. The goal is to be a one-stop resource for visitors looking to experience the city’s legendary hospitality and discover all the ways Chicago is celebrating this historic summer.
Choose Chicago’s marketing team is rolling out a full-funnel international advertising designed to capture the attention of travelers already primed to explore, spend, and share their journeys.
“The World Cup is about passion, connection, and culture—all values that align perfectly with the spirit of Chicago,” said Lisa Nucci, Chief Marketing Officer of Choose Chicago. “Kick Back in Chicago will make it easy for visitors to see why Chicago belongs on their itinerary—not just for the short-term excitement of 2026, but as a destination that welcomes the world year-round. This is about inspiring travel now and building lifelong ambassadors for Chicago.”
Choose Chicago will continue to add new content and itineraries as local programs are developed and as the global tournament approaches. The year 2026 also marks two major milestones for travelers to experience in Chicago—the Route 66 Centennial and America’s 250th anniversary—making it an extraordinary moment to celebrate the past, present, and future of travel in the United States and Chicago.
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About Choose Chicago: Choose Chicago is the official destination marketing organization responsible for promoting Chicago as a global tourism and meetings destination—the city that’s Never Done and Never Outdone. Choose Chicago leverages the city’s unmatched assets to enrich the community by attracting meetings, events, and more than 55 million annual visitors, generating over $20 billion in economic impact. Follow @choosechicago and tag #NeverOutdoneChi on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and X/Twitter. For more information, visit choosechicago.com.
