A new report by the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) says hotel demand in cities hosting FIFA World Cup matches in the United States (US) is falling below expectations, despite initial forecasts of a major tourism boost.

The report notes that around 80% of hotels surveyed are currently tracking bookings below early projections, with international travel restrictions, visa barriers, geopolitical tensions and rising costs cited as key reasons for the slowdown.

It also points to cancellations of FIFA room blocks, which the association says created an inflated early demand signal that has since normalised.

In some markets, only destinations with strong leisure tourism or confirmed team base camps are seeing meaningful increases in bookings.

AHLA President and Chief Executive Officer Rosanna Maietta has urged both FIFA and US authorities to ensure a smoother experience for international visitors, including reducing unnecessary costs linked to visas and transport.

–ChannelAfrica–