Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-3)
OVERLAND PARK, KS – Today, Representative Sharice Davids spoke at the launch of Johnson County United, a regional initiative to coordinate planning and community engagement ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Davids, who founded and co-chairs the bipartisan Congressional FIFA World Cup 2026 Caucus, has been working with federal, state, and local partners to ensure host communities have the resources needed to safely and successfully welcome visitors from around the world.
“The 2026 FIFA World Cup is a chance to showcase the Kansas City region on a global stage while making smart investments that benefit our communities for years to come,” said Davids. “By working together across all levels of government, we’re making sure Johnson County is prepared to welcome visitors, support local businesses, and create lasting economic opportunities for families across the region.”
Johnson County United brings together Johnson County, local cities, regional partners, and state and federal leaders to coordinate preparations for the tournament. Planning efforts include new transportation services to help residents and visitors travel between cities and key destinations, coordinated public safety planning, and community programming so local families can participate in the World Cup experience. Leaders also launched a virtual hub for information on transportation, events, and visitor resources.
“The 2026 FIFA World Cup is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase Johnson County to the world while delivering lasting economic and community benefits,” said Mike Kelly, Chair, Johnson County Board of County Commissioners. “We’re grateful for the strong federal partnership that makes this work possible — especially Representative Sharice Davids, whose leadership in securing safety and transit investments is helping ensure our region is ready to welcome the world.”
At the federal level, Davids has helped lead efforts to ensure host communities have the resources needed to prepare for the tournament. Through her work leading the Congressional FIFA World Cup 2026 Caucus, Congress secured more than $625 million for safety and security efforts and $100 million for transit operations to support host cities across the country. She has also hosted multiple community conversations across the Kansas City region, bringing together federal, state, and local leaders to coordinate preparations on health care, public safety, small business, transportation, and other key priorities ahead of the tournament.