An Insider's look: Incentive Planning Around FIFA World Cup 2026

leo messi and argentina team with world cup trophy
Triumphant Moment at the 2022 FIFA World Cup: Lionel Messi celebrates Argentina’s long-awaited World Cup win surrounded by teammates and fans—an unforgettable scene of passion, pride, and legacy on the world’s biggest stage.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is more than a global event—it’s a once-in-a-decade opportunity to craft incentive programs around peak energy, prestige, and worldwide attention. With group travel converging on host cities like Los Angeles, New York City, and San Francisco, planners have a unique chance to design programs that combine high-touch hospitality, cultural connection, and event alignment. Our team is already on the ground in these destinations—sourcing hotels, venues, and experiences built for bold ideas and flawless execution.

Let us help you build a program that makes your brand shine on the world’s biggest stage.

MATCH SCHEDULE SNAPSHOT

 
Plan around these key FIFA WORLD CUP 2026 match dates:
 
Los Angeles (SoFi Stadium) – 8 Matches
June 12, 2026 — Group Stage
June 15, 2026 — Group Stage
June 18, 2026 — Group Stage
June 21, 2026 — Group Stage
June 25, 2026 — Group Stage
June 28, 2026 — Round of 32
July 2, 2026 — Round of 32
July 10, 2026 — Quarter Final

 

New York City (MetLife Stadium) – 8 Matches
June 13, 2026 — Group Stage
June 16, 2026 — Group Stage
June 22, 2026 — Group Stage
June 25, 2026 — Group Stage
June 27, 2026 — Group Stage
June 30, 2026 — Round of 32
July 5, 2026 — Round of 16
July 19, 2026 — Final


San Francisco Bay Area (Levi’s Stadium) – 6 Matches

June 13, 2026 — Group Stage
June 16, 2026 — Group Stage
June 19, 2026 — Group Stage
June 22, 2026 — Group Stage
June 25, 2026 — Group Stage
July 1, 2026 — Round of 32

Los Angeles

SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles prepares to take the global stage as a host venue for the FIFA World Cup 2026, blending world-class design with unmatched group event potential.

SoFi Stadium (Inglewood)


June 12, 2026 — Group Stage
June 15, 2026 — Group Stage
June 18, 2026 — Group Stage
June 21, 2026 — Group Stage
June 25, 2026 — Group Stage
June 28, 2026 — Round of 32
July 2, 2026 — Round of 32
July 10, 2026 — Quarter Final

As a DMC with deep roots and extensive experience producing high-level group programs in Los Angeles, we know the city’s logistics, vendors, and standout venues inside and out. Below is just a small sample of the hotel, dining, and event options we can offer to elevate your World Cup program.

LOS ANGELES HOTELS

Interior of Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles
Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles blends timeless glamour with modern luxury, offering a polished home base for incentive groups just minutes from Beverly Hills.

Fairmont Century Plaza

Where Wellness Meets Hollywood Legacy (Century City, 30 min to SoFi)
Fairmont Century Plaza was reimagined from its original 1966 form and has hosted everyone from The Beatles to world leaders. With a Forbes Five-Star spa, contemporary design, and polished suites, it’s ideal for incentive groups that prize both legacy and luxury, due to its close proximity to Beverly Hills.

IE INSIGHT: A polished home base for C-suite reward programs with an emphasis on rejuvenation.

Pendry West Hollywood

Where Rooftop Views Meet Rockstar Style(West Hollywood, 35 min to SoFi)
Pendry West Hollywood brings designer flair to the Sunset Strip with Wolfgang Puck restaurants, rooftop cabanas, and a sleek ballroom that opens to city views.

The energy and location are ideal for groups looking to mix business with a bit of bold glamour.

IE INSIGHT: Great for teams that want a premium setting with built-in entertainment energy.

Conrad Los Angeles

Where Architecture and Culture Collide(Downtown LA, 25 min to SoFi)
Conrad Los Angeles, part of Frank Gehry’s Grand LA project, puts groups steps from The Broad and Walt Disney Concert Hall. Dining from José Andrés and sunlit boardrooms round out a space that’s modern, artistic, and group-friendly.

IE INSIGHT: A design-forward choice for programs wanting art, culture, and wow-worthy views all in one.

LOS ANGELES VENUES

An architectural icon, this Hollywood Hills residence offers a striking and cinematic setting for ultra-exclusive incentive events, private dinners, or VIP receptions surrounded by bold design and lush landscapes.

Where Mid-Century Masterpiece Meets VIP Moments (Hollywood Hills)

This Hollywood Hills mansion offers cinematic views and unmatched architectural flair above Beverly Hills.

Ideal for high-touch receptions and brand-forward gatherings. This architectural pedigree and cinematic wow make this a can’t-miss for VIP gatherings.

Where Vines and Prestige Overlook the City (Bel-Air)

This hidden estate is one of LA’s only working vineyards, located in a hillside enclave. Its private tasting areas and panoramic canyon views offer luxury and exclusivity for C-suite programs that want privacy and presence.

casa dani meal
Casa Dani brings the bold flavors of Spain to Los Angeles with Michelin-starred flair, offering beautifully plated dishes like this wood-fired arroz—perfect for incentive dinners that celebrate both craft and creativity.

NEW LA RESTAURANTS SLATED TO OPEN IN TIME FOR FIFA WORLD CUP

A Dual-Concept Destination with Michelin Pedigree (Century City)
Opening this summer, Casa Dani brings Michelin-starred Spanish-Mediterranean cuisine to Century City in a vibrant, design-forward space. Sharing the venue with a sleek new Katsuya, this flexible destination can host up to 400 guests—perfect for welcome receptions or finale dinners with built-in culinary variety.

Global Street Food Meets Group-Friendly Energy (Downtown LA)
Opening this fall, Maydan Market is a chef-driven food hall concept designed for dynamic, high-energy group experiences. With globally inspired food stalls and an open layout made for mingling and movement, it’s ideal for dine-arounds and casual incentive gatherings.

A Neighborhood Bistro with Star Power (Larchmont Village)
Max & Helen’s, a new concept from restaurant icon Nancy Silverton and TV personality Phil Rosenthal, blends upscale comfort food with a cozy, polished aesthetic. It’s a top pick for incentive group lunches or dinners that strike the perfect balance of intimate and elevated.

New York City

met life stadium new york city
MetLife Stadium in New Jersey will take center stage during the FIFA World Cup 2026, serving as a key venue just minutes from Manhattan for unforgettable match moments and large-scale incentive activations.

MetLife Stadium (New Jersey)


June 13, 2026 — Group Stage
June 16, 2026 — Group Stage
June 22, 2026 — Group Stage
June 25, 2026 — Group Stage
June 27, 2026 — Group Stage
June 30, 2026 — Round of 32
July 5, 2026 — Round of 16
July 19, 2026 — Final

Our team has executed programs across NYC’s five boroughs and New Jersey, giving us the expertise to seamlessly navigate venue sourcing, group dining, and high-touch logistics during citywide events. Here’s a curated look at what we can deliver.

New York City Hotels

The Pendry Suite at Pendry Manhattan West offers a serene, residential-style escape in the heart of the West Side—complete with floor-to-ceiling views, custom furnishings, and a grand piano that sets the tone for VIP stays or private incentive gatherings.

Where Skyline Luxury Meets Wellness (Manhattan, 30 min to MetLife)
Located directly within Hudson Yards, Equinox Hotel offers a sleek, high-performance basecamp for wellness-conscious executive groups. With sleep-optimized rooms, infrared saunas, and a dramatic 27th-floor terrace, it’s where hospitality meets peak recovery.

IE INSIGHT: Ideal for incentive winners and VIPs who value rest, recovery, and elevated design.

Where Modern Elegance Meets West Side Access (Manhattan West, 30 min to MetLife)
Pendry Manhattan West is all about understated sophistication—think neutral tones, oversized soaking tubs, and curated art. Its proximity to the High Line and Madison Square Garden gives groups access to the best of Manhattan without midtown noise.

IE INSIGHT: Perfect for planners seeking chic interiors, prime location, and quiet confidence.

Where Waterfront Views Meet Easy Access (New Jersey, 20 min to MetLife)
EnVue, Autograph Collection offers sweeping Manhattan skyline views from across the Hudson in Weehawken. With modern event space and quick stadium access, it’s a smart option for programs that prioritize both proximity and polish.

IE INSIGHT: Combines convenience and calm for high-performing groups avoiding city congestion.

New York Venues

hudson yards dining view over manhattan
Perched on the 101st floor above Hudson Yards, this top-tier NYC venue delivers unmatched skyline views and elevated cuisine—perfect for incentive dinners, VIP receptions, or executive celebrations that deserve a breathtaking backdrop.

Sky-High Celebrations with a View (Hudson Yards, Manhattan)

Perched on the 101st floor, this stunning Manhattan venue is a standout choice for VIP dinners or post-match celebrations that impress from the first step off the elevator, offering sweeping skyline views and elevated dining in one of NYC’s most exclusive settings. 

Flexible, Light-Filled Loft Space for Private Events (SoHo)

Tucked into one of Manhattan’s most stylish neighborhoods, this space delivers a bright, design-forward backdrop perfect for speaker sessions, team offsites, or private networking lunches. Its versatility and photogenic appeal make it a favorite for planners looking to personalize their setup.

Fresh Dining Options

old mates restaurant interior
Old Mates brings Aussie pub culture to the Lower East Side with relaxed hospitality, natural wines, and unfussy share plates— it’s a laid-back yet curated setting ideal for casual group dining with a cool, local feel.

FRESH NYC DINING OPTIONS TO CONSIDER FOR FIFA-FOCUSED GROUPS

A Local Aussie Pub with Laid-Back Flavor (Lower East Side)
Now open in the hip neighborhood of LES, Old Mates brings the feel of a classic Australian neighborhood pub to NYC, complete with natural wines, unfussy share plates, and a warm, welcoming vibe. Co-founded by Aussie TV personality Andy Lee, it’s an ideal pick for casual group dinners that feel more like a local hang than a formal event.

A Rotisserie-Focused Hideaway for Intimate Dinners (West Village)
Opening in Spring 2026, Cleo Downtown—from the acclaimed team behind Brooklyn’s Margot—brings a warm, rotisserie-driven concept to the West Village. With a curated menu and an intimate setting, it’s ideal for chef-led buyouts or cozy group dinners that feel personal and elevated.

A Playful Rooftop Experience (Madison Square Garden)
Just around the corner from Madison Square Garden, Slam, a new sports bar co-signed by Hulk Hogan himself, offers high-energy vibes, a rooftop terrace, and plenty of personality. Great for casual welcome receptions or private game-day viewing parties with a twist.

San Francisco / Silicon Valey

levis stadium santa clara
Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara is set to be a key West Coast venue for FIFA World Cup 2026, offering cutting-edge facilities and a prime Silicon Valley location for large-scale matches and incentive programming.

Levi’s Stadium (Santa Clara)

June 13, 2026 — Group Stage
June 16, 2026 — Group Stage
June 19, 2026 — Group Stage
June 22, 2026 — Group Stage
June 25, 2026 — Group Stage
July 1, 2026 — Round of 32

We’ve worked with tech giants and global brands across San Francisco and Silicon Valley, giving us insider access to the region’s most in-demand venues, vendors, and extensions into wine country. Here’s how we can help bring your World Cup experience to life.

San Francisco Bay Area Hotels

With sweeping views of the Bay Bridge and a design rooted in sustainability, 1 Hotel San Francisco offers a calming, nature-inspired retreat ideal for incentive travelers seeking wellness, comfort, and waterfront luxury in the heart of the city.

Where Tech Execs Retreat (Menlo Park, 25 min to Levi’s)
Rosewood Sand Hill serves as the go-to property for Silicon Valley’s most discerning visitors. Surrounded by gardens and boasting a Michelin-starred restaurant, it delivers luxury with privacy for elite programs.

IE INSIGHT: Perfect for hosting offsite retreats or VIP incentive tiers with discretion.

Where Sustainability Meets Style (Downtown SF / Financial District, 45-60 min to Levi’s)
1 Hotel San Francisco (45–60 min to Levi’s) brings reclaimed wood, plant-filled interiors, and a waterfront location together in one ESG-friendly package. Its urban retreat feel makes it a standout for forward-thinking brands.

IE INSIGHT: A natural fit for groups aligned with wellness, sustainability, and clean design.

Where Creatives Check In (Downtown SF, 45 min to Levi’s)
The Battery SF is a private club-meets-boutique hotel built for tastemakers and innovators. With bold art, luxe lounges, and limited-access exclusivity, it works well for press, media, and high-touch incentive groups.

IE INSIGHT: An insider spot for high-impact meetings or brand storytelling moments.

San Francisco Bay Area Tech-Forward Venues

interior of dogpatch san francisco
Located in San Francisco’s Dogpatch neighborhood, this next-gen immersive venue features geodesic domes, 360° projection, and interactive storytelling—an unforgettable setting for incentive groups seeking bold, tech-forward experiences.

Where Immersion Becomes the Message (Dogpatch)

This groundbreaking immersive venue set to open in early 2026 will feature geodesic domes, 360° projection, and interactive digital storytelling environments. Ideal for teams looking to wow attendees with immersive multi-sensory brand moments.

Where Innovation Lives on the Walls (Dogpatch)

Housed in the historic Dogpatch neighborhood, this studio venue is known for its work with NASA, the United Nations, and experiential campaigns for Fortune 500 brands. The space features projection mapping, creative tech, and space to host bold group experiences.

interior of valley goat reatuarant san francisco
Valley Goat—from Top Chef star Stephanie Izard—blends globally inspired share plates, craft cocktails, and a relaxed California vibe, making it an ideal full-venue buyout for incentive groups seeking warmth, style, and flavor under one roof.

SAN FRANCISCO’S HOTTEST NEW RESTAURANTS OPENING JUST IN TIME FOR FIFA

Elevated Vietnamese Dining in a Landmark Setting (Financial District)
The newly redesigned Crustacean offers a lavish backdrop for incentive groups, with antique Vietnamese décor, a dramatic “secret” family-style kitchen, and a spacious layout ideal for private buyouts or high-end business dinners.

A Celebrity Chef’s Vibrant New Hub in Silicon Valley (Sunnyvale)
Opening in early 2026, Valley Goat—the first Northern California concept from Top Chef alum Stephanie Izard—features shareable, globally inspired dishes, indoor-outdoor seating for up to 250 guests, and a cocktail program that shines. A natural fit for full-service corporate events.

Waterfront Italian Drama Near the Stadium (Mission Rock)
Steps from Oracle Park in San Francisco’s new Mission Rock development, Via Aurelia brings Tuscan flair to an expansive 8,000 ft² space designed for tableside theatrics and long-table group dining. Created by the team behind Che Fico, it’s perfect for elegant business lunches or post-game celebrations with a view.

Extend your program to Napa Valley

B Cellars cave dining room
An unforgettable wine cave dinner at B Cellars—where Napa Valley’s atmosphere, cuisine, and craftsmanship come together for an extraordinary incentive experience.

Make the most of your time in Northern California by adding an extension to nearby Napa—just 90 minutes from San Francisco.

We can coordinate VIP vineyard tours, barrel tastings, and private culinary experiences that blend beautifully with your program’s tone.

It’s an ideal way to reward top performers or unwind post-match with vineyard views, farm-to-table meals, and relaxed luxury.