How the FIFA World Cup 2026 Could Boost South Africa’s Property Market
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is poised to deliver global tourism and economic ripples and the South African property market stands to gain from this much more than many of us anticipate.
How the FIFA World Cup 2026 Could Boost South Africa's Property Market
Big international events like the FIFA World Cup always spark economic activity beyond the borders of the host nations, 2026 is shaping up to follow that trend. Although the tournament will be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico, experts already expect a global spike in tourism, more movement among professionals and a rise in investor confidence in emerging markets.
For South Africa, this global momentum could open up some surprising opportunities, especially in Johannesburg’s residential and investment property hotspots.
1. Increased Global Mobility Spurs Rental Demand
World Cups typically draw millions of international visitors, expats, executives and digital workers. This influx often leads to both short and long term relocations as global companies shuffle teams or expand their reach during high-visibility periods.
In Johannesburg - Africa’s business hub - that can mean:
- More corporate relocations
- Higher demand for executive short-term rentals
- Increased occupancy in premium estates and clusters
- Growing interest from international buyers drawn by a favorable rand
Areas like Sandton, Bryanston and Rosebank usually benefit the most.
2. A Weak Rand Makes SA Property Especially Attractive
As the World Cup boosts global economic momentum, many investors look to high-yield, undervalued markets. South Africa fits the bill perfectly.
The weaker rand has already made Johannesburg’s top-tier estates more accessible to:
- UK and EU investors
- Regional African buyers
- Returning expats
- Foreign corporate procurement teams
Even small currency shifts can make properties in the R5 - R10 million range particularly appealing for rental-focused strategies.
3. Infrastructure Around Business Hubs Boosts Property Value
Even though South Africa isn’t hosting, Johannesburg often experiences indirect economic boosts during major global events due to increased business travel, conferencing and corporate spending.
This often leads to:
- Upgrades to transport routes
- Growth in hospitality sectors
- Revitalization of urban nodes
- More demand for secure, modern cluster homes
Buyers are prioritizing security, backup power, low-maintenance living and close proximity to work. Features that standout developments like 59 East Hertford, 25 St Audley and 2 Westbourne are already offering.
4. Global Investor Sentiment Rises During Mega-Events
Leading up to and during major events like the World Cup, there’s usually:
- More interest in emerging-market portfolios
- Renewed institutional confidence
- Stronger appetite for real estate seen as “stable but undervalued”
South Africa is in a good spot to take advantage of this shift, thanks to:
- Higher returns than Europe or the US
- More attainable pricing
- A large, growing rental market
- Steady demand in nodes like Sandton and Bryanston
5. Why Buyers Are Acting Early in 2025
Smart buyers tend to make moves before a market upswing.
Current activity shows lifestyle buyers and investors are aiming to:
- Lock in good prices before global demand climbs
- Secure energy-efficient homes with backup power
- Benefit from developer incentives
- Position themselves for long-term capital growth
With limited supply in many estate and cluster developments, early buyers often snap up the most attractive options.
Conclusion
South Africa may not be hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but the global economic impact of the event presents real opportunities for both homeowners and investors. Northern Johannesburg suburbs like Sandton and Bryanston are especially well-placed to benefit from the increased global activity and market optimism.
If you’re thinking of buying or investing in 2025, this is the perfect time to explore your options and stay ahead of what’s shaping up to be a busy cycle.
Looking to make a move? Our team at Limestone can offer data-driven guidance and expert local insights to help you take the next step.