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The Myrtle Beach area has been officially approved as a potential Team Base Camp for the FIFA World Cup 2026, one of the most prestigious international sporting events in the world.
FIFA has identified Coastal Carolina University (CCU) and The Ellie Beach Resort Myrtle Beach, Tapestry by Hilton as suitable facilities to host a World Cup team during competition training. A collaborative effort between CCU and Visit Myrtle Beach helped position the destination as a potential Team Base Camp for one of the 48 teams competing in the World Cup.
“We are thrilled and honored that Myrtle Beach has been selected as a potential FIFA Team Base Camp,” said Jonathan Paris, Executive Director of Sports Tourism for Visit Myrtle Beach. “Being approved as one of the potential locations is a testament to CCU’s incredible facilities as well as our entire region’s world-class amenities, hospitality and welcoming spirit. While we’re hopeful that one of the teams will select us, being considered as an option is a milestone in our ongoing effort to attract international sports and visitors.”
The CCU Soccer Complex opened in late summer 2024 and is home to both the Chanticleers men’s and women’s teams. The facility features a new playing surface, bleacher seating, stadium lights, team game-day facilities, restrooms and concessions.
“We are both honored and proud that Myrtle Beach and Coastal Carolina University are under consideration as an official FIFA World Cup 2026 Team Base Camp site,” Chance Miller, Coastal Carolina VP for Intercollegiate Athletics and University Recreation, said. “This gives us an opportunity to showcase our state-of-the-art facilities and the warm, vibrant community spirit that defines Myrtle Beach — exactly the qualities top-tier national teams seek for preparation during a world-class event. It’s rewarding to see our recent investment in a new facility already paying dividends for our community. If selected, we look forward to providing an exceptional environment where athletes can train, rest and focus as they prepare for the biggest stage in global soccer.”
As of July, FIFA has identified 62 potential Team Base Camp options to serve as training and accommodation hubs for the participating national teams during the tournament. The majority of the base camp options are located in the United States with additional sites in Mexico.
Teams are expected to select their camps following the final draw in December, which will determine World Cup match locations and enable teams to choose base camp locations that are geographically convenient to their matches. Teams will also look at other factors such as the quality of training facilities and accommodation standards.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is being held June 11 to July 19, 2026, by the United States, Canada and Mexico. Matches are set for 16 host cities with team base camps strategically located to support tournament logistics.