Kansas City officials unveiled the ConnectKC26 transportation plan to connect residents and visitors during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The initiative, developed over 18 months, aims to deliver tournament requirements while minimizing daily disruptions and fostering long-term economic benefits. Three key services will simplify travel and enhance the fan experience across the region.
During a press conference on December 2, 2025, Kansas City, Missouri, Mayor Quinton Lucas, Johnson County Board of Commissioners Chairman Mike Kelly, and KC2026 CEO Pam Kramer detailed the ConnectKC26 plan. Kramer described it as a 'group effort' focused on three core tenets: meeting FIFA's tournament needs, reducing impacts on local life, and creating lasting regional economic growth.
The plan features three motorcoach services. Region Direct will operate from June 11 to July 13, providing access to 15 sites and the FIFA Fan Festival at the National World War I Museum and Memorial. Sites include Boardwalk Square in Kansas City, Missouri; Independence Center; KC Zoo; Lawrence, Kansas; and others like Lenexa City Center and Worlds of Fun. This service aims to encourage residents to explore new areas, with Kramer noting it could cut travel time from Lenexa City Center to Fan Fest from 1 hour 40 minutes to 30 minutes.
Stadium Direct will run on match days, transporting ticketholders from four park-and-ride locations and Fan Fest directly to GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. One specified location is Highway 40 and Stadium Drive in Kansas City, Missouri.
Airport Direct will offer service every 15 minutes from Kansas City International Airport to a downtown hotel hub from June 11 to July 13, extending two days past Kansas City's last match.
'We want locals to stay here; they will make the experience authentically Kansas City,' Kramer said, promoting it as a staycation opportunity. Lucas highlighted improved regional connections, while Kelly emphasized benefits beyond the city center and introducing public transit to new users. Fares will be set after the December 5, 2025, team draw.
Local business owner Chad Talbott of Topp’d pizza in Lenexa welcomed the Region Direct link, planning to extend hours and offer specials for visitors.