tennessee3

Why Nashville thinks it's got better than a 50-50 shot to be a World Cup host city in 2026

TicketsBar2NASHVILLE, Tenn. – On Day 2 of the 2018 World Cup, I’ve been pondering Nashville’s chances to be one of the American host cities for the 2026 World Cup.

Stadium

While the U.S. combo bid with Canada and Mexico (known as United 2026) for a 48-team tournament outlined the number of games in the states (60 with 10 each in the other two nations) and the number of host cities in America, FIFA can make any adjustments to that it likes.

Nashville is one of 17 US candidates, but Atlanta is one of two cities the U.S. Soccer bid put forth to host a semifinal. Would FIFA want two nearby Southeastern cities hosting games?

Butch Spyridon, CEO of the city’s convention and visitors bureau, doesn’t think Atlanta will foil a Nashville bid.

He said overcoming the perception that Nashville isn’t a soccer town is bigger than competing with Atlanta.

“Until they come, until they witness, then they flip,” he said. “I think we’ve got better than a 50-50 chance. I like our chances.”

Login to Read the Full Story

Not Already a Member?

Membership includes access to everything on the site – articles, videos and potentially podcasts. You’ll be welcome to private Periscope sessions where only members can ask questions, have a spot on a private Facebook page where we can discuss everything and get priority placement in mailbag posts. PaulKuharsky.com will provide analysis and insight on the Titans and the league that simply can’t be found elsewhere, plus occasional rants from me on non-football stuff I come across.

You are not authorised to post comments.

Comments powered by CComment