As the FIFA World Cup gets underway across North America, fans will see matches played in 16 host cities throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico. One notable absence from that list is Las Vegas, despite its reputation as one of the world's leading destinations for entertainment and major sporting events.

The decision not to pursue World Cup matches dates back to 2017, several years before Allegiant Stadium officially opened. During the stadium's planning and construction, local officials explored the possibility of hosting FIFA matches in Las Vegas. However, after reviewing the requirements, city leaders concluded that the costs and obligations associated with hosting the tournament outweighed the potential benefits.

At the time, former Raiders president Marc Badain and stadium officials met with FIFA bid organizers to assess what would be required. Their findings revealed that Las Vegas would likely need to invest more than $100 million in infrastructure and venue-related improvements simply to host group-stage matches.

In addition to stadium upgrades, FIFA required host cities to provide dedicated training facilities for participating national teams. Meeting those standards would have required further investment and logistical planning throughout the Las Vegas area.

Another challenge involved Allegiant Stadium itself. FIFA has strict specifications regarding playing surfaces and field dimensions. Because the stadium's natural grass field uses a movable tray system that slides in and out of the venue, modifications would have been required to comply with FIFA regulations.

Local officials also faced uncertainty regarding funding. At the time, there was no designated organization with the authority to commit the financial resources needed to support a World Cup bid.

Ultimately, city leaders determined that pursuing the tournament was not the best strategic move. Las Vegas already attracts large numbers of visitors during the summer months, reducing the economic incentive that many host cities seek from World Cup tourism.

Since then, the city has focused on securing other high-profile events. Through the efforts of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, Las Vegas has successfully landed major attractions including the Super Bowl, Formula One races, WrestleMania, the upcoming College Football Playoff National Championship, and the NCAA Men's Final Four.

While World Cup matches won't be coming to Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas has continued to establish itself as one of North America's premier destinations for major sporting and entertainment events.