Top-ranked World Cup Teams Choose Kansas City for Base Camps

Argentina and England among national squads setting up shop in KC ahead of 2026 tournament

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

Several top-ranked national teams competing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including Argentina and England, have selected the Kansas City metropolitan area as their base camp locations ahead of the tournament. The teams will use the region's sports facilities and infrastructure to train and prepare for matches.

Why it matters

Hosting World Cup teams is a major coup for Kansas City, which has been working to establish itself as a premier sports destination. The influx of teams, staff, and fans will provide a significant economic boost to the region and raise its global profile.

The details

Argentina and England are among the high-profile teams that have chosen Kansas City as their base camp for the 2026 World Cup. The teams will utilize training facilities, hotels, and other infrastructure in the metro area to prepare for matches during the tournament.

  • The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be held across North America, with matches taking place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
  • Teams are finalizing their base camp locations in advance of the tournament, which kicks off in June 2026.

The players

2026 FIFA World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the 23rd edition of the international men's football championship, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Argentina

The Argentina national football team, also known as La Albiceleste, is one of the most successful national teams in the history of the World Cup, having won the tournament twice.

England

The England national football team, also known as the Three Lions, is one of the most recognized and successful national teams in international football, having won the World Cup once.

Kansas City

The Kansas City metropolitan area, straddling the border between Missouri and Kansas, is a growing sports hub that has attracted major events like the NFL Draft and is now set to host World Cup teams.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Hosting top World Cup teams like Argentina and England is a huge win for Kansas City and will showcase our city's world-class sports facilities and hospitality to a global audience.”

— Quinton Lucas, Mayor of Kansas City, Missouri (Kansas City Star)

“We're thrilled to welcome these elite national teams to Kansas City and provide them with the resources they need to prepare for the World Cup. This is a testament to the investments we've made in our sports infrastructure.”

— Mark Funkhouser, President, Visit KC (Kansas City Business Journal)

What’s next

As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Kansas City officials will continue working with the participating national teams to finalize logistical details and ensure a successful hosting experience.

The takeaway

Kansas City's selection as a base camp destination for top World Cup teams underscores the city's growing reputation as a premier sports hub and its ability to attract major international events. The economic and visibility boost from hosting these teams will be a significant win for the region.