A report says hotel operators in several US host cities have seen demand run below normal seasonal expectations, while others are broadly flat rather than surging. That is a notable split from the ticket market.
That pattern makes football sense. Supporters often delay committing until travel routes, group-stage plans and knockout possibilities become clearer. In a tournament this large, many fans may also choose one city rather than follow a team coast to coast.
Pricing looks like a major factor. The report says some hotels pushed rates sharply upward after the match schedule was announced, including properties near MetLife Stadium listing rooms at several times their usual level around key dates.
Fans are experienced. If they expect prices to fall, many will wait.
The softer start does not mean hotels will miss out. Reports suggest some markets are still posting year-on-year gains, while others expect bookings to build closer to kickoff. That is common for major tournaments, especially one staged over such a wide geography.
The next real test will come as summer 2026 gets closer, visa plans firm up and supporters lock in itineraries. If prices settle and travel certainty improves, the late booking wave could still arrive - and the hospitality race in World Cup host cities may only just be starting.