KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - A lot of work is planned over the next year as Kansas City prepares for World Cup 2026 .

The FIFA World Cup 26 kicks off in 500 days.

While there is a lot of behind-the-scenes work already underway, organizers say people across the Kansas City region should expect to begin hearing much more about the event.

That includes the massive number of volunteers it will take to pull off the event.

“No matter where you live in our great state, there’s an opportunity this year for you to get involved as Missouri prepares for its moment on the international stage,” Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe said.

Just like during the NFL Draft in Kansas City, organizers plan to use a portal to organize volunteers for World Cup-related events.

FIFA World Cup 26 qualifying matches continue throughout 2025, leading up to FIFA’s Final Draw. That is when Kansas City will learn which teams it will host during the tournament’s Group Stage.

“The hard work of countless individuals over the next 500 days will showcase our city’s ability to deliver world-class events and hospitality that is second to none,” Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas said.

The FIFA World Cup 26 begins June 11, 2026, with the first Group Stage match played in Kansas City on June 16, 2026.

Over the next year organizers plan to release more information about Kansas City FIFA Fan Festival, the winning design that will be used for the official Kansas City Host City Poster, and information about pop-up events.