Airbnb Hosts Houston Forums Ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup

Airbnb prepares local hosts for influx of World Cup visitors to Houston this summer.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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Airbnb will hold two forums in downtown Houston on Wednesday to help local Airbnb hosts prepare for the influx of visitors expected during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The forums will provide hosts with insights, strategies, and best practices for hosting World Cup travelers. Houston is set to host seven World Cup matches at NRG Stadium from June 14 to July 4, with over 500,000 people expected to visit the city during the tournament.

Why it matters

As one of the host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Houston is anticipating a significant increase in tourism and demand for short-term rentals. Airbnb's forums aim to equip local hosts with the knowledge and tools they need to successfully accommodate World Cup visitors and capitalize on the economic opportunity.

The details

The Airbnb forums will feature a welcome presentation, fireside chat, and networking period. The goal is to provide hosts with "FIFA-focused insights, expert-backed hosting strategies, and peer-led best practices" to help them navigate the high-impact travel moment. Airbnb is also investing more than $1 million into World Cup initiatives in Houston, and the company is partnering with the local host committee to attempt a world record for the longest line of soccer balls.

  • The forums will take place on Wednesday, February 17, 2026 from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
  • The 2026 FIFA World Cup will run from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
  • Houston will host seven World Cup matches at NRG Stadium from June 14 to July 4, 2026.

The players

Airbnb

A leading short-term rental platform that is partnering with Houston to prepare local hosts for the influx of World Cup visitors.

Houston's Local Host Committee

The local organizing committee responsible for coordinating Houston's hosting of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

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What’s next

Airbnb and the Houston host committee will attempt to break a world record for the longest line of soccer balls this year as part of their World Cup initiatives.

The takeaway

Airbnb's proactive efforts to prepare local hosts for the influx of World Cup visitors demonstrates the company's commitment to supporting Houston's tourism industry and ensuring a positive experience for both travelers and hosts during this major global event.