Kansas City Kicks Off World Cup Volunteer Selection

Kansas City is buzzing as preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026 ramp up, with just over 200 days until the first matches begin. Recently, Union Station played host to the first wave of hopeful volunteers undergoing “tryouts” for the monumental event. This pivotal step aims to build the 6,000-person team that will be the welcoming face of our city to the world.

The Heart of the Action: Union Station Volunteer Center

A crucial step in Kansas City’s World Cup preparations is underway at the newly opened KC2026 Volunteer Center, located on the third floor of historic Union Station. This dedicated space, described by applicant Kathy Robertson as “really cool” with its “interesting history of soccer” and even a foosball table, serves as the hub for prospective volunteers. Here, hopeful individuals are engaging in one-on-one conversations with a “starting lineup” of 250 already-selected volunteers, eager to see if they “make the cut” to join the World Cup team.

Building the Face of Kansas City: The Volunteer Force

The call for volunteers resonated deeply within the community, drawing an impressive pool of over 16,000 applications. The challenge for KC2026 now is to meticulously trim this extensive list down to a 6,000-person volunteer force. Lori Thomas, Director of Volunteer Operations for KC2026, explains that these “tryouts” are more akin to substantive conversations, designed to reflect applicants’ skills and what unique qualities they bring to the table. Volunteer Matt Verhulst noted the interviewers asked “substantive questions,” ensuring they find individuals genuinely committed to the cause. With approximately 50 diverse roles available, from aiding transportation to festival support, KC2026 CEO Pam Kramer emphasizes that “there are no small parts in an event of this scale,” highlighting the essential nature of every contribution.

A Shared Desire to Welcome the World

What drives so many to volunteer for the World Cup? The reasons are as varied as the applicants themselves, but a common thread is a profound desire to extend Kansas City’s renowned hospitality. Applicants consistently express enthusiasm for the “energy, the vibe, the people, the vibrancy” of the event. Kathy Robertson, among the first to undergo her tryout, articulately captured this sentiment, stating, “I want to show people how wonderful Kansas City is and how friendly.” This collective spirit of welcome is poised to create an unforgettable experience for the estimated 650,000 visiting fans.

Bridging Cultures Through Language

In anticipation of visitors from every corner of the globe, translation and communication skills are identified as paramount. Lori Thomas highlighted Kansas City’s inherent linguistic strength, noting that “more than 60 languages are spoken in the Kansas City, Kansas, public schools alone.” This rich diversity positions KC2026 favorably in finding multi-lingual volunteers. In fact, one initial volunteer already boasts the ability to speak 11 languages. Chanez Hachour, a 20-year-old applicant fluent in English, French, Arabic, and her native Tamazight, exemplifies this valuable asset, eager to “interact with different people” and help bridge any potential communication gaps.

Kansas City on the Global Stage

Hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2026 is an unprecedented opportunity for Kansas City to showcase its unique culture, hospitality, and vibrant community to an international audience. The meticulous process of selecting 6,000 volunteers underscores the city’s commitment to excellence and to creating a memorable experience for the hundreds of thousands of fans expected to descend upon the region. These volunteers will not just be guides or assistants; they will be ambassadors, embodying the spirit of Kansas City and leaving a lasting impression on visitors from around the world. The successful execution of this volunteer program is integral to KC’s broader goal of shining brightly on the global stage.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the “tryouts” like for World Cup volunteers?
  These “tryouts” are not physical challenges but rather one-on-one conversational interviews held at the KC2026 Volunteer Center. Applicants discuss their skills, motivations, and what they hope to contribute, with interviewers asking substantive questions to assess their suitability for various roles.
• Where are these volunteer tryouts happening?
  The volunteer tryouts are being conducted at the official KC2026 Volunteer Center, which is located on the third floor of Union Station in downtown Kansas City. The center itself offers an immersive environment with soccer history and amenities like a foosball table.
• How many volunteers are needed for the World Cup in Kansas City?
  From an impressive pool of over 16,000 applicants, KC2026 is looking to recruit a dedicated force of 6,000 volunteers to assist with the World Cup activities across Kansas City.
• When will applicants know if they’ve been selected for a role?
  Hopeful applicants who are offered a volunteer position for the World Cup should anticipate receiving an email notification from KC2026 sometime in January, detailing their placement and next steps.
• What kind of roles can volunteers expect to fill during the World Cup?
  KC2026 has identified approximately 50 distinct volunteer roles, all of which are considered essential. These could include assisting fans with transportation, directing visitors at event sites, providing vital translation services, or simply offering a friendly welcome at key locations like the airport or fan festivals.

As Kansas City prepares to host a global spectacle, the dedication and enthusiasm of these local volunteers will be crucial in ensuring a warm and memorable experience for everyone. Keep an eye on your inboxes if you’ve applied, and get ready to witness our city shine on the world stage as we welcome the world. What a place to be, and to be part of that would just be amazing!

KC kicks off World Cup volunteer selection at Union Station