With Brazil’s group-stage schedule for the 2026 FIFA World Cup now confirmed, the Selecão’s technical staff has shifted focus to a key logistical decision: selecting the team’s hotel headquarters and training base in the United States.
Comfort, Privacy, and Travel Time Drive the Search
The decision gained urgency after the official draw in Washington, D.C., which placed Brazil in Group C with Morocco, Scotland, and CONCACAF’s Haiti. With all match locations on the East Coast or Southeast, the federation has moved away from earlier considerations in California, Oregon, the Midwest, and Canada.
Brazil coordinator Rodrigo Caetano, speaking alongside manager Carlo Ancelotti, emphasized that comfort, infrastructure, and reduced travel times remain the core priorities. “It’s essential to consider hotel infrastructure, equipment, and the travel distance to each stadium,” Caetano said. “We won’t get every item on our wish list, but we’ll define our priorities to give the team the best conditions possible.”
Night Games Ease Heat Concerns
One logistical concern entering the draw was the potential for high summer temperatures across the U.S. East Coast. That issue has eased considerably. Because match schedules are tailored to European television windows, all of Brazil’s group games will be played at night — offering far more comfortable conditions.
- June 13 — Brazil vs. Morocco — New York (MetLife Stadium), 6 p.m. local
- June 19 — Brazil vs. Haiti — Philadelphia, 9 p.m. local
- June 24 — Brazil vs. Scotland — Miami, 6 p.m. local
The duel against Haiti, one of CONCACAF’s representatives, is expected to draw strong regional interest and adds a unique logistical angle to Brazil’s East Coast preparation.
Red Bulls Training Center is the Early Favorite
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Should Brazil select a New York–area base, the most likely training ground is the New York Red Bulls Training Facility, which recently underwent upgrades and served as a venue during last year’s FIFA Club World Cup. Its infrastructure, privacy, and proximity to major airports and Brazil’s first two match cities make it a leading option.
Facilities in Boston and the Philadelphia region remain under review, though sources say they are currently slightly behind in the preference process.
Brazil Has Priority in Selecting a Base
FIFA has assigned 64 official training sites to qualified teams, and nations select in order based on the FIFA Men’s Ranking. Brazil, ranked among the global elite, will have early priority — behind only Spain, Argentina, France, and England — increasing the likelihood that the federation secures its preferred hotel and training complex.
Decision Expected by June 9
Brazil must be settled into its official headquarters no later than June 9, five days before the opening match against Morocco. By that date, players and staff will already be in full pre-tournament mode.
With limited travel distances, nighttime fixtures, and high-end facilities available, the East Coast presents an advantageous setup for Carlo Ancelotti as Brazil prepares for a World Cup run it hopes will extend deep into July.
