Major Airline Partnership to Support World Cup Travel Across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico
American Airlines has officially been named the Official North American Airline Supplier for the FIFA World Cup 26™, establishing a strategic partnership that places the U.S.-based carrier at the forefront of fan and team transportation across the tournament’s 16 host cities.
This landmark alliance is a pivotal part of FIFA’s efforts to deliver a seamless and immersive tournament experience for millions of fans, players, and stakeholders expected to descend upon Canada, Mexico, and the United States for the most expansive World Cup in history.
A Robust Domestic Network to Connect the Continent
With a network of over 2,200 daily flights across North America, American Airlines will play a central role in connecting the dots between stadiums, fan festivals, and training sites. Every one of the 16 host cities, including major hubs like Dallas, Los Angeles, New York/New Jersey, and Toronto, is directly served by American Airlines’ extensive route system.
Particularly significant is the tournament’s connection to the airline’s headquarters in Dallas-Fort Worth, which is set to host nine matches—the highest number among all host cities. This adds a meaningful local dimension to a global collaboration.
Teaming Up with Qatar Airways and Oneworld
The agreement complements the existing partnership between FIFA and Qatar Airways, the tournament’s Official Global Airline Partner. As both airlines are members of the Oneworld alliance, they will collaborate to ensure smooth travel transitions between international and domestic flights.
This partnership creates a holistic, fan-friendly travel solution, combining American Airlines’ strong domestic footprint with Qatar Airways’ global reach to simplify journeys for spectators traveling from across the globe.
Leaders Speak on the Alliance
Caroline Clayton, Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Vice President of Communications at American Airlines, stated:
“We are proud to partner with FIFA and look forward to connecting fans to all FIFA World Cup 26 matches. As the home team for this historic event, we’re excited to fly fans across North America to experience the passion, energy, and diversity of the beautiful game.”
Romy Gai, FIFA’s Chief Business Officer, added:
“Having American Airlines on board as an Official Supplier further enhances our ability to deliver an exceptional FIFA World Cup in 2026. Their unmatched domestic network and deep connection to the American public make them a perfect fit for this historic tournament.”
Thierry Antinori, Chief Commercial Officer of Qatar Airways, remarked:
“With American Airlines joining as the Official North American Airline Supplier and Oneworld partner, we believe we can offer millions of travelers a seamless and rewarding journey to the FIFA World Cup 2026.”
FIFA World Cup 2026: A Global Stage
The FIFA World Cup 26 is set to be a groundbreaking edition. For the first time, the tournament will feature an expanded format of 48 teams competing in 104 matches across three countries. It’s anticipated to become the most attended and most viewed sporting event in history.
FIFA continues to attract global brand partnerships at an unprecedented scale. Companies like Lenovo, Visa, Verizon, McDonald’s, Bank of America, and Lay’s join American Airlines in supporting the tournament and amplifying its cultural and commercial reach.
American Airlines: At the Intersection of Sports and Travel
With daily service to over 350 destinations in 50+ countries and a founding role in the Oneworld alliance, American Airlines is no stranger to high-volume, global travel logistics. This partnership solidifies its role not only as a carrier but also as a connector of experiences, moments, and international communities coming together to celebrate the sport.
Category: Travel & Aviation, Sports Business, World Cup 2026, Corporate Partnerships
Tags: FIFA World Cup 2026, American Airlines, airline sponsor, North American World Cup, travel and tourism, FIFA partnership, soccer 2026, World Cup host cities, global sports sponsorship, Oneworld alliance
