The Spotlight: A Lighthouse Podcast

Lighthouse Quick Takes - World Cup '26 group stage host city power ranking


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Sometimes you see a piece of analysis that’s so cool you have to share it—so welcome back to Lighthouse Quick Takes ⚡️

Now that the World Cup group stage matchups are set, which host cities are positioned for the biggest travel + lodging demand impact? In this episode, we break down Daniel Forman’s Host City Power Rankings (16 → 1)—based on matchup quality, star power, weekend timing, repeat team appearances, and inbound fan travel potential.

🔥 Biggest storylines & demand drivers

✅ NY/NJ at #1 with a stacked slate (Brazil, Germany, France, England) + global gateway advantage

✅ Dallas at #2 featuring England, Argentina (twice), Netherlands, Croatia — and likely Messi’s final World Cup

✅ Boston at #3 powered by elite international connectivity + Norway vs France (Haaland)

✅ Houston at #4 with Portugal twice (Ronaldo) + Germany + Netherlands, plus easy Dallas access

✅ Miami at #5: South American team in every match = sustained inbound intensity

📌 Want to go deeper? Read Daniel’s full article.

If you’re tracking tourism, hospitality, short-term rentals, pricing, or event-driven demand, subscribe for more quick-hit analysis as the tournament gets closer.

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The Spotlight: A Lighthouse PodcastBy Lighthouse