Big Events Need Big Fans. This World Cup is struggling to fill the seats.

A major soccer tournament was supposed to bring a surge of visitors to America, but so far, hotels and airlines are still waiting. Fewer fans than expected have booked flights or rooms, even as match day approaches. Prices for tickets and travel have jumped, making it hard for regular fans to afford the trip. Many are choosing cheaper alternatives instead, like watching at home or going somewhere more relaxed. Hotels had planned for a huge boost in business, but now many are cutting prices to attract guests. In New York, some hotels dropped rates to half their usual cost, yet bookings remain weak. Travel companies say fans are holding off, hoping to see which teams will make it further before deciding to travel. Even after the group stage ends, experts aren’t sure if demand will pick up enough to save the season.Ticket prices have reached record highs, partly because organizers raised costs as the tournament got closer. Fans also face extra hurdles like visas and border checks, especially those coming from countries with stricter entry rules. Some travelers are being turned away entirely. Despite the struggles, vacation rentals are seeing a different story. More groups are booking places to stay together, splitting the cost. Companies like Airbnb say this World Cup is turning out to be one of their busiest ever. Still, for big hotels and airlines, the lack of international fans is leaving a major gap in their revenue.