The report says received around 1.1 million applications for volunteer positions worldwide, selecting nearly 50,000, or roughly 5% of candidates. In the Boston area, just over 3,000 applicants reportedly made the final cut.
That level of demand reflects the unique appeal of a World Cup. Volunteers are not simply filling spare roles; they become part of the welcome offered to supporters arriving from across the world.
Cifuentes, who lives in Springfield, is expected to travel around 90 miles to Boston for six four-hour shifts at South Station. His duties will include helping fans navigate buses and trains - a practical responsibility that could prove vital during the tournament.
For Kelly Andrade and Joao Andrade, the journey ended after several stages, including an in-person assessment. The report says the couple were disappointed not to be selected, but still valued the opportunity to take part.
Kelly reportedly identified communication as a major challenge, with notifications delivered through both email and an application without a consistent process. Their experience highlights the pressure created when thousands of hopeful applicants compete for a limited number of positions.
The couple also offered a reminder for future candidates: volunteering requires flexibility, patience and a genuine desire to serve. It does not guarantee entry to a match, with any available access expected to be limited.
The 2026 World Cup will span three countries and 16 host cities, creating a logistical challenge on a scale few sporting events can match. Transport hubs, fan zones and city streets will be as important to the supporter experience as the arenas themselves.
As the opening match in the Boston area approaches, volunteers such as Cifuentes will face their first real test: turning preparation into a smooth welcome for the world’s fans.