Airbnb announced on May 5 a series of curated experiences designed to bring fans closer to the FIFA World Cup 2026, which is set to begin in less than 50 days. The offerings include opportunities such as joining football legends on the pitch, customizing official tournament kits with adidas designers, and attending exclusive soccer debates.
The initiative aims to unite fans from around the world by providing unique ways to experience the event beyond traditional match attendance. Airbnb said it is collaborating with FIFA and other partners to host these activities in key host cities.
One highlight is ‘The Ultimate Quarter-Final Getaway’ with former England captain Rio Ferdinand, who will attend the tournament as a fan for the first time in three decades. Four guests and their plus ones will join Ferdinand in Los Angeles for a four-day experience that includes match tickets, private stays, and special access events. “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.”
Other experiences include customizing jerseys with an adidas designer; meeting U.S. soccer legends Landon Donovan and Tim Howard during live podcast recordings; training sessions led by Ian Wright or Christen Press; playing matches at Miami Stadium alongside MLS veterans Bradley Wright-Phillips and Lloyd Sam; and attending games with top Airbnb hosts who are also avid football fans.
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 famous players, Airbnb is offering local activities throughout host cities—such as street-style football games in Mexico City or mural painting at Wynwood Walls in Miami—to foster community among visiting supporters.
According to the official website, Airbnb enables hosts across more than 220 countries and regions worldwide—including those hosting during major sporting events like this one—to share homes as well as offer local experiences ranging from guided tours to cooking classes.
