A dispute has emerged between the hotel industry and FIFA over accommodation arrangements for the upcoming World Cup.
Hotels across the United States claim that FIFA’s large-scale room reservations created what they described as “artificial demand” in several host cities.
According to hotel operators, the booking pattern distorted market expectations and affected long-term planning ahead of the tournament.
The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) said many hotels made major financial and operational decisions based on projected World Cup demand.
As reported by BBC Sport, the association argued that FIFA’s early room reservations shaped staffing plans, pricing forecasts, and investment strategies across host cities.
The group claimed that the booking process created the impression of extremely high demand, even before fans finalised travel plans.
The association further alleged that FIFA later cancelled a large portion of the reserved rooms.
According to the AHLA, up to 70 percent of rooms initially booked in cities such as Boston, Dallas, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and Seattle were later released back into the market.
Hotel operators say the cancellations disrupted business forecasts and created uncertainty in the hospitality sector.
However, FIFA rejected the allegations and defended its accommodation strategy.
A FIFA spokesperson stated that all room releases followed contract agreements signed with hotel partners.
The organisation also explained that room adjustments are standard practice for global sporting events of this scale.
In addition, FIFA said its accommodation team maintained regular communication with hotel operators throughout the planning process.
Accommodation prices in several host cities increased sharply after the World Cup draw revealed where teams would play.
Although rates have reportedly dropped by around 20 percent in recent weeks, many hotels still remain expensive for travelling supporters.
For example, rooms in Boston are reportedly averaging more than $300 per night.
As a result, many football fans are now searching for cheaper accommodation outside city centres.
England supporter Chris Hancock, who has attended four previous World Cups, said many fans are already adapting to rising travel costs.
According to him, supporters are choosing hotels farther from major cities to reduce expenses and remain within budget.
He explained that staying outside busy areas such as Dallas, Boston, and New York City can significantly lower accommodation costs.
Despite the disagreement, the AHLA remains optimistic that hotel demand will rise as the tournament approaches.
The association noted that many fans are still waiting for ticket confirmations and clearer schedules before finalising their travel arrangements.
Hotel operators also expressed confidence that bookings will improve in the coming weeks as excitement around the World Cup continues to grow.
The dispute highlights growing pressure on the hospitality industry as preparations for the tournament intensify.
It also reflects the challenge of balancing fan demand, hotel pricing, and large-scale event logistics during one of the world’s biggest sporting competitions.
Both FIFA and hotel operators say they remain committed to ensuring visiting supporters enjoy a smooth World Cup experience.
