Populous revamps 16 North American stadiums for record-breaking 2026 World Cup

For the 2026 World Cup, Populous transformed all 16 host stadiums in the United States, Mexico and Canada through a process known as overlay, adding temporary fencing, tents, generators, signage and other infrastructure to meet FIFA’s requirements. The firm also widened playing fields where needed and swapped artificial turf for natural grass, a task that involved a complex drainage and soil-layer system supplied by the University of Tennessee and Michigan State University.

In Kansas City, Populous worked with the local organizing committee to create cohesive branding at the airport, bus stations and the city’s streetcar, and helped launch a free Fan Fest that showcased local music, barbecue and a halftime appearance by Jason Sudeikis as Ted Lasso. The company’s portfolio includes designing new World Cup venues in past editions, but this tournament relied solely on upgrading existing arenas, many of which Populous had previously designed or renovated.

Highlights included the 65-foot KC Heart Gateway sculpture at the Fan Festival and memorable fan events such as the Netherlands Oranje Fanwalk. Populous is already slated to contribute to the 2030 and 2034 World Cups, building on its long-standing partnership with FIFA.