By Rasheed Adewuyi, New York.
Thousands of volunteers across North America are preparing for what organizers say will be the busiest and largest 2026 FIFA World Cup in history. With the tournament expanding to 48 teams and spanning multiple host cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the demand for trained support staff has reached unprecedented levels.
Officials overseeing the volunteer program report overwhelming interest, with applications far exceeding available positions. The initiative is expected to include roughly 65,000 volunteers, making it the largest workforce of its kind ever assembled for a World Cup. Organizers say the strong response highlights the global appeal of the tournament and the desire among fans to contribute beyond the stands.
According to a story monitored on CBS News New York, training sessions in the region have already begun to intensify as officials prepare volunteers for the scale and pace of the event. The report highlighted how local participants are being equipped with practical skills to assist large crowds and provide accurate information to international visitors.
Volunteers will serve in a wide range of roles, from greeting visitors at airports to assisting with navigation in and around stadiums. Others will be assigned to fan zones, transportation hubs, and team facilities, helping ensure operations run smoothly. Training programs have been underway for months, focusing on customer service, safety procedures, and coordination across multiple venues.
Preparation efforts have intensified in recent weeks as host cities finalize logistics ahead of the tournament’s opening. Local authorities and event planners are working closely with volunteer coordinators to simulate crowd scenarios and test response systems. These exercises are designed to ensure volunteers are ready to manage large-scale crowds and provide accurate information under pressure.
Organizers emphasize that volunteers will play a critical role in shaping the overall experience for millions of visitors. As front-line representatives of their cities, they are expected to provide assistance, resolve issues, and create a welcoming atmosphere for international fans. Their presence is seen as essential to maintaining order and enhancing the event’s global reputation
Participants are required to complete background checks and commit to multiple shifts during the tournament. Many have described the opportunity as a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering a chance to be part of a historic sporting event while engaging with people from around the world.