Transportation companies could see increased demand as cities prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, raising new opportunities for bus and motorcoach operators who can supply vehicles quickly and at scale.
Master’s Transportation, a national rental and leasing firm, said local governments are likely to seek temporary fleet capacity for shuttles, event transport, and other services as match-day crowds move through host cities.
“Large-scale events like the World Cup will put unprecedented strain on local transit systems,” said Travis Farmer, vice president of rental at Master’s Transportation. “Cities need scalable, cost-effective vehicle solutions now.”
Farmer, who spoke at November’s TxPPA Conference in San Marcos, Texas, said one in six Americans is planning a World Cup road trip, increasing pressure on municipalities to secure additional vehicles. He said agencies are already exploring short-term leases and used inventory as lower-cost options.
“For many agencies, purchasing brand-new vehicles for a single event doesn’t make financial sense,” Farmer said.
Supply will be tight
Farmer noted that immediate access to vehicles — without manufacturing lead times — could determine which providers secure contracts. He said demand is likely to intensify as host cities lock in plans.
“It’s not just about having vehicles — it’s about having them close to where they’re needed most,” he said.
With host cities still finalizing transportation plans, operators able to provide capacity quickly may find short-term opportunities in cities preparing for tournament crowds.
“FIFA is closer than people think,” Farmer said.
World Cup events run from June 11 through July 19, 2026.
Bus & Motorcoach News caught up with Farmer for a Q&A to learn more about the strategy of Master’s Transportation to find customers for the World Cup and prepare to meet the demand of the international event.
Bus & Motorcoach News: What are the most important steps motorcoach operators should take now to prepare their fleets and operations for World Cup–level demand?
Travis Farmer: Rental demand will spike across key markets hosting World Cup games. Partnering with a company like Master’s Transportation, which has locations in many of these host cities and can transport units to operators in need, is key, as the majority of operators will be looking for additional fleet to meet the demand. Some operators might only need backup units to help manage their spare ratio for breakdowns, etc. We are already starting to see reservations come through (May-August) from operators and even families booking anything from 10- to 15-passenger Sprinters to 40-passenger shuttles, some even asking for ADA equipment. As we get closer, available fleet will be hard to find, so it’s a good idea to start booking now.
Operators should expect breakdowns and keep spare parts on hand to keep their units on the road. We will increase our supply of parts in host cities where Master’s is located. Having other service providers on speed dial for on-site service or roadside assistance will protect your downtime. When using Master’s Transportation as your rental partner, we have a team that specializes in supporting our operators with service, maintenance and breakdowns 24/7.
BMN: How should operators set realistic expectations with their clients about availability, pricing, and service limitations during a high-demand 45- to 60-day tournament window?
Farmer: Set simple terms early, reserve backup vehicles for the whole 45-to-60 window, and document scope, pricing, and change rules. Again, availability in those host cities will be challenging. The best thing an operator can do is ensure their equipment is well-maintained before and during the World Cup. Also, have a partner like Master’s Transportation that can supply well-maintained vans, sprinters, and shuttles quickly as operators flex their fleet.
BMN: What contracts, documentation and compliance items should motorcoach companies have ready to secure municipal or venue-related work quickly?
Farmer: What’s your guidance for how operators should coordinate or conduct outreach with municipalities, organizers, and government agencies to become part of official transportation plans?
It’s helpful to share a focused capabilities brief that highlights fleet counts, ADA configurations, safety performance, insurance, maintenance programs, spare-vehicle plans, and 24/7 support. Develop a plan to pre-position vehicles, parts, and mobile maintenance near venues to maintain performance, and execute event agreements for 45 to 60 days with extension options, substitution rules, weather language, and indemnification.
BMN: What operational or communication practices separate successful transportation providers in major events from those who struggle?
Farmer: Successful transportation providers protect uptime with disciplined preventive maintenance by running pre-trip inspections, staging mobile technicians, pre-positioning parts, and assigning spare vehicles for quick substitution. Providers who maintain compliance with active U.S. Department of Transportation authority, certificates of insurance, permits, and written incident and weather procedures demonstrate they are prepared. They also understand the importance of collaborating early through municipal planning calls, venue walk-throughs, and tabletop exercises, and they maintain daily communications and a clear escalation path with their rental partners.
