The 2026 FIFA World Cup is coming to North America—and for public transportation agencies across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the countdown is already underway.

In this episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort speaks with transportation journalist Dan Zukowski of Smart Cities Dive about the enormous mobility challenge behind one of the world’s biggest sporting events. From Los Angeles and Boston to New York-New Jersey and Atlanta, transit agencies are preparing to move hundreds of thousands of visitors safely, efficiently, and seamlessly through their cities.

Dan breaks down how agencies are expanding service, coordinating with law enforcement, improving customer wayfinding, and preparing for the unique pressures of international visitors arriving during weekday rush hours. The conversation also explores how the World Cup could become a defining moment for public transportation in America—and potentially leave behind lasting improvements for riders long after the final match.

Paul and Dan discuss:

• How host cities are preparing transit systems for FIFA 2026
• Why mobility is central to the success of mega-events
• LA Metro’s long-term “Twenty-Eight by 28” infrastructure strategy
• The role of transit ambassadors and multilingual wayfinding
• Crowd management, security, and game-day operations
• How agencies are coordinating buses, trains, bikes, scooters, Uber, and more
• The opportunity to win over new riders through positive transit experiences
• What cities could learn ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics

If transit works well during the World Cup, it won’t just move fans—it could reshape how cities and residents think about public transportation for years to come.

🎧 Also in this episode:

• Insights from Smart Cities Dive’s transportation coverage
• The future of multimodal mobility and regional coordination
• Why major sporting events are becoming transit proving grounds

This episode offers a fascinating look at the planning, logistics, and strategy required to deliver mobility on a global stage.

Host and Producer: Paul Comfort

Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Producer: Chris O’Keeffe

Editor: Patrick Emile

Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin

Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo, passionate about moving the world’s people.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.