WEST PALM BEACH, FL — The Palm Beaches have been selected as an official Team Base Camp destination for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, welcoming the Portugal and Curaçao Men’s National Teams to Palm Beach County.
As part of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) Team Base Camp program, participating nations establish a home base where players, coaches, and staff train, reside, and prepare throughout the tournament. Unlike host cities that only welcome teams on match days, base camp destinations benefit from extended stays—bringing sustained economic impact and international visibility.
The Portugal Men’s National Team will train at Gardens North County District Park in Palm Beach Gardens, bringing one of the world’s most recognized football programs—and global superstar Cristiano Ronaldo—to the region. Portugal’s presence is expected to generate significant international media coverage and attract fans from across the globe.
Meanwhile, the Curaçao Men’s National Team will establish its base at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton. Representing one of the most exciting emerging programs in international football, Curaçao’s participation introduces a strong Caribbean connection and expands The Palm Beaches’ reach into new and growing global markets.
The selection of The Palm Beaches as a Team Base Camp destination is expected to deliver meaningful economic benefits to the region. Team delegations—including players, coaches, federation officials, media, and visiting supporters—will reside in Palm Beach County for multiple weeks, generating:
- Increased hotel occupancy and extended room nights
- Growth in restaurant, retail, and local business activity
- Enhanced demand for transportation and tourism services
Beyond direct spending, the global spotlight associated with the FIFA World Cup will position The Palm Beaches in front of millions of viewers worldwide, creating long-term destination awareness and future visitation opportunities.
“Securing two Team Base Camps for the FIFA World Cup is an extraordinary milestone for Palm Beach County and a testament to years of strategic effort, collaboration, and vision,” said George Linley, Executive Director of the Palm Beach County Sports Commission. “Hosting both Portugal and Curaçao underscores the global confidence in our world-class facilities, hospitality infrastructure, and operational expertise. Our team has worked relentlessly to position The Palm Beaches on the international stage, and this achievement reflects that commitment. We are proud to welcome these elite teams and look forward to delivering an exceptional experience that showcases everything our destination has to offer.”
Both Portugal and Curaçao will compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage from June 11 to late June 2026 across North American host cities, using Palm Beach County as their training base throughout the tournament period.
The Palm Beaches provide an ideal setting for international teams preparing for the world’s largest sporting event, offering world-class training facilities, a warm year-round climate, and luxury accommodations. This combination of elite infrastructure and coastal lifestyle continues to attract top-tier global competitions. Hosting multiple team base camps for the 2026 FIFA World Cup strengthens Palm Beach County’s position as a leader in sports tourism, driving economic impact, global exposure, and community engagement.
