Seattle prepares for the FIFA World Cup 2026 by partnering with Businesses Ending Slavery & Trafficking to offer free training to prevent human trafficking.
SEATTLE — With Seattle set to welcome the FIFA World Cup 2026, organizers and local agencies are increasing efforts to prevent human trafficking before fans begin arriving next summer.
On Thursday, the SeattleFWC26 Local Organizing Committee highlighted a partnership with Businesses Ending Slavery & Trafficking (BEST) that will offer no-cost trafficking awareness training and educational materials to businesses throughout the area.
The program is aimed at companies operating near expected gathering points for visitors, including the stadium area, waterfront destinations and official Fan Zones. Leaders say employees in hospitality, tourism and customer-facing industries are often among the first people who may notice signs of exploitation.
As part of the effort, businesses can sign up workers for BEST Basics, a training course focused on recognizing potential trafficking situations and responding appropriately. Staff members can access the online program using the code “FIFA26-SEA.” Employers will also be able to distribute workplace reference sheets outlining common warning signs.
The partnership also includes free downloadable materials from BEST’s “Not Alone Campaign,” including posters and informational resources intended to support survivors and connect people with assistance programs.
Officials highlighted the efforts during a press conference Thursday centered on anti-trafficking preparations tied to the upcoming tournament. Officials outlined plans for additional frontline education, multilingual awareness signage and outreach efforts targeting transportation centers and businesses that serve visitors.
Seattle will host six matches at Lumen Field during the tournament. The city’s first game is scheduled for Monday, June 15, while the final Seattle match is expected to take place Monday, July 6.
Organizers said work is already underway across the region to prepare for the event, including transit coordination, public safety planning, tourism initiatives and business support programs.
According to Visit Seattle, World Cup activity could bring an estimated $929 million to the King County economy and create thousands of jobs.
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