Why Now Is the Time to Refresh Your Hotel Rooms Ahead of FIFA 2026

Upgrade Now, Win Later: Get Ahead of the FIFA 2026 Guest Surge

Executive Summary:

• Global games, global gains: FIFA 2026 will spike occupancy and rates—refreshed hotels will capture the most.
• Small upgrades, major impressions: Walls, ceilings, lighting, and finishes directly influence guest satisfaction and reviews.
• Beat the bottleneck: Acting now avoids contractor delays, rising costs, and room downtime.
• RWC delivers with precision: Specialized in live-site renovations, RWC ensures polished results with minimal disruption.

As Vancouver prepares to host FIFA World Cup matches in 2026, the hospitality industry faces a once-in-a-generation opportunity to capture global attention and maximize returns. For hotel operators, asset managers, and owners, timing is critical. With visitor volumes expected to spike, refreshing your hotel rooms now—before labor and material shortages escalate—is a strategic move to strengthen your competitive position and deliver an exceptional guest experience when it matters most.

Major sporting events consistently drive dramatic increases in hotel performance metrics. During the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, hotel occupancy averaged 70%, with peak days reaching as high as 83% (STR). Similarly, during the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, Moscow hotels achieved an Average Daily Rate (ADR) of $444.01, a nearly fourfold increase compared to $115.70 in 2017 (STR). These numbers highlight the real financial stakes: properties that are refreshed and ready stand to gain significantly in both occupancy and pricing power.

Refreshing rooms before FIFA 2026 does more than just boost immediate revenues. Aesthetic upgrades such as updated walls, ceilings, finishes, and modern lighting have a direct impact on guest perception and satisfaction. Research consistently shows that travelers prioritize cleanliness, comfort, and visual appeal when choosing accommodations. Even small visual cues—fresh paint, flawless drywall, well-lit ceilings—can shape reviews, loyalty, and future booking behavior.

Beyond the guest experience, the timing of renovations is a crucial operational consideration. Delaying upgrades risks running into scheduling bottlenecks, with skilled trades expected to be in high demand leading up to FIFA 2026. By acting now, hotel properties can lock in better pricing, ensure higher quality execution, and avoid costly rush fees or service interruptions. Early renovations also allow for proper phasing, minimizing room downtime and protecting existing revenue streams.

The window to act is now. With increased competition, evolving brand standards, and heightened guest expectations, hotels that invest early in strategic upgrades will not only capitalize on FIFA-driven demand but will position themselves for long-term success in Vancouver’s growing hospitality market. 

This is where RWC Systems can add tremendous value. Specializing in drywall, ceilings, finishes, and light electrical upgrades, RWC brings deep experience working in live environments with precision, efficiency, and minimal disruption. With a strong portfolio of complex commercial and retail projects requiring high-level finishing, RWC is uniquely positioned to support hotels aiming to deliver a polished, brand-compliant guest experience well ahead of FIFA 2026.

Contact RWC Systems today to discuss how we can help elevate your property ahead of this landmark event.