Last December, it was announced where the Dutch national team will play during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The host cities for the group phase of the competition are: Dallas, Houston, and Kansas City.
Our colleague Rianne was in Kansas City for the announcement, which took place during Travel South International Showcase 2025, and she could truly feel the excitement. Kansas City and the state of Missouri are ready to welcome the Dutch national team, and especially the Dutch supporters, in June 2026. But first, they came to visit us! Last week, a delegation from Visit Kansas City and Visit Missouri traveled to the Netherlands.
Visit Kansas City
Jenny Wilson – Vice President of Tourism Development
Traci Moon – Sr. Vice President Marketing & Communications
Devin Aaron – Director of Communications
Visit Missouri
Megan Sheets – Travel Trade Specialist
The purpose of this visit was to connect with the Dutch travel trade, media, and potential travelers. During various presentations and training sessions, everything related to the World Cup was discussed. At the same time, attendees were also introduced to what the destination has to offer beyond the fan zones, from culture and BBQ to jazz music, a Route 66 road trip, and much more!
World Cup Activation Day
On Monday, February 2, a group of media and trade partners was invited to an informative training session and football activation at a unique venue: the Johan Cruijff ArenA in Amsterdam. Informative presentations were combined with valuable conversations during the networking sessions. The overall response from attendees was that Kansas City and the state of Missouri truly exceeded expectations, showcasing a wide range of experiences both during the World Cup and beyond.
Exploring the Netherlands
In addition, in-office trainings were held at Style in Travel and Travelhome, complemented by cultural activities such as a visit to the Zaanse Schans and the Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park.
Vakantie Festival
During the second half of the week, part of the delegation traveled south, where Visit Kansas City and Visit Missouri were present with a stand at the first edition of Vakantie Festival. Over the course of three days, nearly 17,000 visitors attended the event and had the opportunity to learn more about what the city and state have to offer.
For the world, from the heart!
