A U.S. host city has revealed the staggering total amount it spent preparing for and staging the World Cup, a price tag that has raised eyebrows across the sports and civic communities alike.

The figure, disclosed in newly released budget documents, underscores the enormous financial commitment required to host the tournament. From stadium upgrades and infrastructure improvements to security, transportation, and fan-zone operations, the costs ran far beyond initial estimates, according to city officials.

Local leaders defended the expenditure as a long-term investment, pointing to the influx of visitors, international exposure, and lasting upgrades to public facilities. However, critics have questioned whether the economic benefits will ever fully offset the massive outlay, a debate that has intensified as the final accounting comes into focus.

The disclosure provides a rare, transparent look at the true cost of hosting one of the world's largest sporting events, and it has prompted other cities to reassess their own budgets and expectations for future mega-events.