World Cup Gives Seattle Economy Another Major Boost

The Center Square YT

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July 3rd, 2026

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Seattle is once again in the international spotlight as the U.S. Men's National Team returns to Lumen Field for a FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match against Belgium. New fan experience rankings place Seattle as the highest-rated U.S. host city, with visitors praising its walkable downtown, waterfront, restaurants, public transit, and overall atmosphere. Downtown Seattle Association President John Scholes discusses the city's record crowds, economic impact, and why World Cup exposure could benefit Seattle long after the tournament ends. The Center Square also examines how visitors are viewing Seattle and what the tournament could mean for the city's future. #Seattle #WorldCup #FIFA2026 #USMNT #SeattleWorldCup #LumenField #SeattleNews #WashingtonState #TheCenterSquare #WashingtonInFocus

The Center Square YT

The focus of The Center Square's work is state and local level government and economic reporting. A taxpayer sensibility distinguishes our work from other coverage of state and local issues. As a result of this approach, our audiences are better informed about the focus of state and local government and its cost to the citizens whose tax dollars fund governmental decisions.