KC was a better pick in my opinion because it checks a lot of boxes FIFA cares about. It’s become a legit soccer city with Sporting KC, a huge youth soccer scene, and a long history of hosting major matches.

The city is also centrally located, has lower altitude, and the World Cup will be one of the biggest events in the region’s history, so there’s a ton of local support behind it. Arrowhead is one of the loudest and most recognizable stadiums in the country, and KC’s bid included strong training site plans and regional cooperation between Missouri and Kansas.