The city of Houston is working at full speed to have everything ready for the arrival of the FIFA World Cup. The kickoff will be on June 11 when the opening kick will take place at the Azteca Stadium, but the fever of football will be felt worldwide, especially here in the Space City, where thousands of people will gather in what is the ‘fan fest’.
On the eastern side of downtown is where this massive event will be held, and each day, during the 32 days of the tournament, it will welcome visitors and locals who will watch the games on screens, participate in activities and sample the diversity of dishes from the broad selection of restaurants.
It will be weeks during which Houston will welcome soccer fans who will come to enjoy the seven matches to be played at the NRG Stadium, which will bear the name Houston Stadium due to FIFA rules.
A few days ago the 100-day milestone of the World Cup’s arrival in Houston was commemorated and the emotion of the city’s residents was felt, many of whom, including me, will be experiencing a World Cup for the first time.
Personally, I am excited and have many expectations for this event; I want to participate as much as possible in whatever I can. We must live the experience firsthand and make sure we motivate everyone around us to give ourselves the opportunity to be part of this soccer celebration.
We have to make plans for this summer and be present at what will be a unique opportunity that is offered to us; we do not have to attend the matches, since it is difficult because of ticket control and perhaps cost. What we can do is attend the ‘fan fest’ and be part of the excitement because this goes beyond football, it is an opportunity to experience something unique that various generations around the world have lived. We cannot stay out in any way.
We must interact and welcome the visitors and show them how beautiful our city is, of which many of us are proud. We must make a good impression in the eyes of the world.
The street repairs and total beautification of the city are already underway; surely we will continue to see improvements so that the people who come away with a good image of our city.
There is a lot to share and also to support the local businesses that were involved. The economic spillover will be immense; it is estimated at 1.5 trillion dollars. In addition, we expect half a million visitors and, if everyone participates, we will make this a great experience.
I have witnessed how planning has gradually taken shape, I have participated in important presentations and conferences of the local committee and truly a significant effort has been made so that Houston and its people are up to the challenge of this great event that only takes place every four years and had not come to our country since 1994. So our generation will have a unique opportunity with the World Cup at home; so let’s not miss it and be part of this celebration of sport.
What do you think?
