ORLANDO, Fla. – Thousands are set to kick back and have a ball as FIFA Club World Cup matches continue in Orlando this week.
Orlando is one of 11 American host cities for the tournament.
Camping World Stadium is hosting a Round of 16 matchup tomorrow and a quarterfinal matchup on the Fourth of July.
[Video: Orlando is one of 11 American host cities for the tournament]
City officials anticipate that this event could deliver millions or even billions in economic benefits to Orlando neighborhoods like Parramore, situated near Camping World Stadium.
Numerous businesses in Parramore look forward to welcoming FIFA Club World Cup fans this week, expecting a turnout similar to last Thursday’s event at Glenn Closson’s establishment, Ivanhoe Park Lager House.
“Our original location operates on Mondays, but this one doesn’t,” explained Closson. “We’re making an exception for this event. We’ll open at 5 p.m. and remain open as long as necessary to ensure everyone enjoys good food and quality beer.”
Just a few minutes down the road, Zita Steglich-Ross with The District Gastrobar said they’re also expecting more foot traffic.
[Video: FIFA loves Orlando:’ Central Florida is primed for Club World Cup]
“It’s typically slower. Traffic is much slower on a Monday, and we typically see a 50% increase when we have those types of events,” said Steglich-Ross.
Closson, whose bar just celebrated its one-year anniversary, said events at Camping World Stadium attract more business to Parramore.
“It’s cool to see Rider Market open up a few months before we did. Hittin’ Skins is another great business. We’ve been trying to collaborate with those other businesses to create that and get more development going. We all kind of see that success here,” he said. “Especially with the new laws that have been instituted by the city to curb crime. It is rebounding, and we really appreciate these events and collaboration.”
Commissioner Shan Rose said this week’s festivities could be another step in luring the Jacksonville Jaguars to host their games in Orlando for the 2027 NFL season.
“Orlando is the number one sports city in America right now, and we are moving,” said Commissioner Rose. “This is showing the Jaguars that there are a lot of great things here for you, and we have things beyond the stadium.”
She said it also shows that Orlando and Parramore can attract international fans.
“They’re wearing their flags representing the country that they’re supporting. You actually see them on the street dancing and singing,” Steglich-Ross added.
[Video: Trailblazing soccer referee gets ultimate assignment at the Club World Cup in Orlando]
Commissioner Rose says they’re expecting millions of dollars in economic impact and plan to release those numbers at a later date.
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