Airbnb and former England football captain Rio Ferdinand announced on Apr. 27 the launch of “The Ultimate Quarter-Final Getaway” in Los Angeles, a special experience for fans during the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026. The three-night event will allow guests to attend a live recording of the “Rio Ferdinand Presents” podcast, enjoy curated local experiences, and watch a World Cup quarter-final match.
This initiative is notable as it marks the first time in over three decades that Ferdinand will attend the tournament as a fan rather than a player or commentator. According to Airbnb, participants will stay in private accommodations in central Los Angeles and enjoy amenities such as private chef services, guided city tours, and VIP dining experiences. The highlight of the trip includes exclusive access to a behind-the-scenes podcast session with Ferdinand and his co-hosts Joel Beya and Ste Howson.
“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, proper 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.”
Booking requests for “The Ultimate Quarter Final Getaway” open on May 12 at airbnb.com/rioferdinand with four spots available for July 8–11. Each booking covers one guest plus an additional person at no cost to submit a request; participants must be at least eighteen years old with eligibility restrictions detailed online.
Airbnb enables hosts to share homes and local experiences globally according to its official website. The company serves users across more than 220 countries and regions according to its official website, connecting guests with unique accommodations such as entire homes or private rooms alongside offerings like cooking classes or guided tours according to its official website. Airbnb originated from renting air mattresses in an apartment according to its official website.
As both Airbnb and FIFA aim to bring people together through global events like this tournament experience—and by welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors—organizers say they hope these efforts drive meaningful economic impact within host cities.
