FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (Dec. 2, 2025) – As a demonstrated leader in FIFA World Cup 2026™ planning, KC2026 proudly announced ConnectKC26, the region’s transportation plan designed to move visitors and residents with comfort, ease and efficiency during the FIFA World Cup 2026™. This system is more than just transit; it’s a commitment to authentic Midwest hospitality, affirming Kansas City’s position as a dynamic and prepared FIFA World Cup 2026™ host.
Kansas City has created a network from the ground up that is specifically tailored for the recreational and exploratory needs of visitors, residents and fans during the FIFA World Cup 2026™. ConnectKC26 is the blueprint for that vision, offering a seamless, layered system that provides direct routes to the heart of the action, whether that’s a match, the FIFA Fan Festival™, or one of the region’s diverse cultural, entertainment or dining destinations.
“This plan is all about connecting people with experiences and opportunities across our entire region. It is about impact, and it is one more example of how KC2026 is delivering big for the FIFA World Cup,” said Pam Kramer, Chief Executive Officer of KC2026. “We are proud to be the first Host Committee to detail our plans to enhance regional transit services beyond match days, a bold step made possible through the support and regional commitment of our partners: Black & Veatch, JE Dunn Construction, Populous, Purina, and The University of Kansas Health System.”
The ConnectKC26 plan introduces three new, direct motorcoach services, all focused on simplifying travel and maximizing the fan experience:
- Region Direct: This daily service encourages fans to explore the region and residents to be “tourists at home.” Region Direct connects the FIFA Fan Festival™ at the National WWI Museum and Memorial to 15 key regional sites, making it easy to explore Kansas City’s full range of attractions without the hassle of driving or parking.
- Stadium Direct: This is the essential match-day service for all ticket holders. Recognizing that stadium parking will be extremely limited, Stadium Direct offers fans a reliable, stress-free route directly to Kansas City Stadium. It will operate from the FIFA Fan Festival™ and four designated park-and-ride locations across the metro: Highway 40, Independence Center, North Kansas City, and Oak Park Mall.
- Airport Direct: Providing the first impression of Kansas City’s world-class hospitality, this service offers frequent, comfortable rides between Kansas City International Airport (MCI) and Downtown Kansas City. Running approximately every 15 minutes, Airport Direct carries visitors downtown, a central hub for hotels and connecting transportation services.
“This plan is the product of nearly a year and a half of regular engagement with our transportation working group of regional agencies, state departments of transportation and planning organizations as well as collaboration with cities, counties and law enforcement agencies,” said Jason Sims, Director of Transportation for KC2026. “Our mobility team brings unparalleled expertise in international event and local transportation planning.”
A Layered Mobility Network
ConnectKC26 is designed to expand Kansas City’s existing mobility options, creating an integrated, layered network. This includes the KC Streetcar, rideshare, taxis, existing bus transportation and bike/scooter share for flexible, short trips. Together, these modes provide fans with every option they need to navigate the city with ease.
This transportation plan is engineered for comfort and convenience, focusing on direct routes from major lodging and event hubs to key attractions. It’s an investment that will leave a powerful legacy, serving as a blueprint for managing large-scale events in the future and demonstrating how Kansas Citians can use transit for recreation and community mobility.
Details on ConnectKC26 pricing, including Stadium Direct ticketing, Region Direct service and parking reservations will be shared in the coming months. Fans are encouraged to visit KansasCityFWC26.com to sign up for notifications to be the first to know.
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About KC2026
A nonprofit organization overseeing strategy and delivering Host City duties for the FIFA World Cup 26™, KC2026 will plan, construct and implement all aspects of Kansas City’s largest sports and fan engagement event in the region’s history.
KC2026 planning efforts are supported by its Official Kansas City World Cup 2026 Host City Supporters: Black & Veatch, JE Dunn Construction, Purina PetCare, Populous and The University of Kansas Health System. These global and regional companies are leaders in their respective industries and represent key sectors of KC’s economy. Host City Supporters are civic and brand partners who are helping bring the FIFA World Cup 26™ to life in Kansas City. Learn more at KansasCityFWC26.com.
About Greater Kansas City
Home to 2.5 million people, Kansas City is a vibrant metro in the heart of the U.S., known as the “KC Heartland.” An all-new single terminal at Kansas City International Airport welcomes guests by air, while 85% of the U.S. is less than a two-day drive away. The region’s red-hot sports culture is embraced every season, headlined by the Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas City Royals, Major League Soccer’s Sporting Kansas City, and the National Women’s Soccer League’s Kansas City Current.
About FIFA World Cup 2026™
FIFA World Cup 2026™ will be the biggest sporting event ever, with three Host Countries, 16 Host Cities, 48 teams and 104 matches uniting an entire continent to showcase a momentous new tournament format. With more countries, cities, teams, and games, FIFA World Cup 2026™ will be the most inclusive tournament ever, engaging millions of fans across 16 unique stadiums and billions worldwide. The tournament will take place in June and July 2026. For the latest FIFA World Cup 2026™ information please visit the FIFA World Cup 26™ website. For media representatives wishing to stay up to date on all things 2026, please register via the FIFA Media Hub.
Contact:
Haley Harrison-Lee or Savannah O’Dell