A bill to keep Missouri in the game to host the World Cup is moving forward.
Locations across the United States, Canada and Mexico will host World Cup matches in 2026. Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City is one of 17 sites in the running to be one of about 10 host locations in the U.S.
Missouri lawmakers are working on a bill to exempt World Cup tickets from sales tax, leveling the playing field between our state and other states being considered. Exempting sales tax is seen as a prerequisite for being chosen as a host location. Soccer governing body FIFA is expected to make final site decisions as soon as May.
The World Cup sales tax exemption is contained in Senate Bill 652, sponsored by Sen. John Rizzo, a Democrat from Kansas City.
Backers of the legislation, including the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry, have noted the massive economic impact the event would bring to our state. It’s estimated bringing the games to Kansas City could lead to $695 million in positive economic activity.
Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe is helping lead the Missouri’s World Cup effort, and has said the event would be like “having five Super Bowls.”
Senate Bill 652 passed the Senate in March and on April 12 was approved by the House Committee on Progress and Development.
It now awaits final approval by the Missouri House before going to Gov. Mike Parson to be signed into law.
