— Each 16-foot installation will represent one of the qualifying nations —
From Argentina and Brazil to Colombia, France, Japan, Morrocco and Spain — along with every nation competing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup — Miami Beach is gearing up to welcome thousands of diehard soccer fans as the global tournament arrives in the 305 this summer. To celebrate, the city is unveiling 48 massive, 16‑foot soccer ball inflatables across parks and public spaces, each honoring one of the qualifying teams.
“The 48 soccer balls represent the nations competing on the world’s biggest stage,” said Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner. “More than a photo opportunity, this activation brings the world to Miami Beach and celebrates the unmatched global spirit of fútbol.”
Visit www.miamibeachfl.gov/worldcup to see the complete list of ball locations, which are being installed now through June 5. The oversize soccer balls will remain on public display for the duration of the World Cup tournament.
“Miami Beach has become the epicenter of the sports, culture, and business hub of the world, with the FIFA World Cup bringing a global audience to our community,” added Miami Beach Commissioner Joe Magazine. “These 48 installations are our invitation, to every fan from every nation, to come experience the magic of this city while the world’s greatest tournament unfolds right here in our backyard. I couldn’t be more proud to welcome the world to our Miami Beach.”
The 2026 World Cup is the largest in the tournament’s history in terms of teams participating, and will bring seven matches to South Florida from June 11 to July 19, including the bronze medal match. Miami Beach expects a surge of international visitors, many of whom will stay on the island and enjoy watch parties and special events.
“The World Cup inspires young athletes everywhere, and we want that spark to shine in Miami Beach,” shared Commissioner Monica Matteo-Salinas. “These installations invite our youth to dream big, stay active and feel connected to a global community.”
For added fun, the city will invite fans to explore the installations through a mission-style scavenger game powered by Badger. As visitors discover each soccer ball, they’ll be encouraged to capture photos or videos and upload them to a live global feed hosted on the dedicated Miami Beach World Cup website. A dynamic “surge” system will power the experience: when one country’s fans are the most active within a given period, that nation rises to the top and takes over the live feed.
Additionally, the iconic Miami Beach sign at Ocean Drive and 5 Street is getting a fresh new look for the World Cup. The beloved landmark is now surrounded by 48 vibrant flags representing every qualifying nation, creating a dynamic backdrop for fans and visitors. It’s another perfect place to join the global excitement and capture a share‑worthy photo.
