The Three Lions Scout for FIFA 2026 Training Facilities Following Concerns of Missing Out On Preferred Location to Holland.

The FA has sent officials to the America this week to inspect potential facilities for the upcoming global finals, amidst increasing worries that their top-pick site could be allocated by the Dutch national team.

Tournament Draw Complications Alter Plans

Manager Thomas Tuchel had previously approved an FA plan for England to locate in Kansas after a pre-tournament training camp in Fort Lauderdale. But, following last week's group stage draw, there are now fears that the Netherlands, who have their group stage matches in Kansas, will be awarded first choice on the desired facility at Sporting Kansas City—a state-of-the-art centre operated by US Soccer.

The world governing body assigns training camps based on geographic location and FIFA rankings if there is a dispute, with the draw possibly pitting the FA against the Netherlands and Argentina for sites in the tournament's central region.

Considering Other Options

With England's group stage matches set to take place in Dallas, Boston, and New Jersey, the FA is now reportedly exploring alternative locations on the east coast. The FA began its search for training camps at the start of the year, with Tuchel and director of football John McDermott visiting possible locations during the Club World Cup last summer.

Despite this early preparation, there was always an understanding that the official tournament draw could drastically change their logistical arrangements.

Later Round Logistics Strategy

England have the eighth most arduous group stage schedule in terms of travel. Topping Group L would put England on course for a round of 32 game in Atlanta, then a potential last-16 match in Mexico City.

• Significant Change: The FA may opt to choose to travel from match to match for the knockout stages if England qualify, a significant shift from its usual protocol of maintaining a fixed tournament base.
• Tournament Organizers Recommendation: FIFA is understood to be recommending such a itinerant approach for the expansive 2026 tournament.

After the training base is finalized, the FA will focus on arranging two pre-tournament matches in Florida at the beginning of June.