KC's World Cup poster is pure hometown admiration
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It's loud. It's proud. And it looks exactly like Kansas City feels on game day.
Why it matters: For the first time ever, each 2026 FIFA World Cup host city has its own official poster, and KC's stands out for its bold, playful tribute to our food, music, people and pride.
The big picture: Titled "Woven Together," the poster was created by local designer Jadie Arnett, a Columbia native now working for Boulevard Brewing Co. She beat out more than 100 artists in a citywide contest last year.
- Arnett's vision debuted at a Sporting KC match earlier this month, unveiled by fans like a giant tifo banner.
- Her design tells a story across three scenes — a drive from Kansas into Missouri, matchday action in a stadium and a celebration bursting with KC's best: barbecue, jazz, fountains and beer.
- "I chose what icons to include based on the overall story of the poster, which is the FIFA World Cup coming to Kansas City," Arnett told Axios. "The bottom panel shows the celebration taking the streets after the match ... inspired by the Super Bowl parades ending in front of Union Station and huge crowds of people."
What they're saying: "Knowing it was a design for the whole world was absolutely nerve-wracking," she told Axios. "But at the end of the day, I needed to create something that I felt best showcased Kansas City."
Fun fact: Look closely and you'll spot little Easter eggs tucked into the design: a bottle of barbecue sauce, streetcar wires and Union Station's famous fountains.
State of play: Kansas City planning officials are calling this moment a once-in-a-generation chance to show the world what makes this city special. Local leaders say the World Cup could bring in millions in economic impact.
The poster started selling worldwide on April 19 on FIFA's site, part of a full FIFA campaign to spotlight local identities.
What's next: The 2026 tournament will be the largest in FIFA history, with 48 teams playing matches across 16 cities in the U.S., Mexico and Canada. Kansas City is hosting six matches at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, including a quarterfinal.