Benidorm is preparing for a busy summer as thousands of England supporters are expected to flock to the Costa Blanca resort during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The World Cup will take place in the United States, Canada and Mexico, but many British football fans are likely to follow the tournament from Spain’s most popular holiday destination.
Local authorities have already begun preparing special security measures ahead of the competition, which runs from 11 June to 19 July.
More flights from the UK
According to local officials, airlines have increased capacity on routes to Alicante during the World Cup period.
The increase is particularly noticeable on flights from the United Kingdom, where airlines have added 16.4% more seats during the group stage of the tournament.
The extra flights could bring more visitors to Benidorm, where bars and restaurants traditionally attract large crowds whenever England compete in major international tournaments.
England’s group stage matches
England will play three group-stage matches:
- 17 June: England v Croatia (22:00 Spanish time)
- 23 June: England v Ghana (22:00 Spanish time)
- 27 June: Panama v England (23:00 Spanish time)
Bars, pubs and entertainment venues across Benidorm are likely to welcome large crowds for each match.
Special police operation
In response, Benidorm Council, the National Police and the Local Police have coordinated a special security operation.
The plan includes additional patrols and officers from the National Police’s specialist Public Order Unit (UIP).
Both police forces will increase staffing levels during afternoon and evening shifts throughout the tournament.
Officials will focus the operation particularly on days when England are playing.
Security chiefs have also confirmed that they could expand the deployment if England progress to the later stages of the competition.
Football and tourism
Major sporting events regularly attract large numbers of visitors to Benidorm, particularly from the UK.
With England among the tournament favourites, local businesses expect a boost in trade as fans gather to watch the action.
