Many residents in cities hosting the World Cup 2026 report that the dating app Hinge is being exploited for free stays. Home addresses have become a significant advantage on the platform for those looking for accommodation. This group uses the app to secure free lodging instead of a serious relationship. On social media, this phenomenon is known as "hobosexual"—a term for individuals who leverage romantic connections to find temporary housing.

A representative from the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) stated that hotel room supply in World Cup 2026 host cities faces immense pressure as fans, teams, and support groups arrive, driving prices up three to seven times compared to normal days.

Emily Durham, a content creator from Toronto, Canada, garnered over 1,6 million views after posting a video warning about the trend of "using dating apps to ask for a place to stay." She recounted how a friend matched with a man on Hinge. After a few messages, he invited her to dinner and then suggested staying overnight, claiming his home was far away. When she declined, he continued to persuade her, saying he had an appointment nearby. Ultimately, he admitted he simply needed convenient accommodation when visiting the city.

"They are using Hinge like an Airbnb booking app", Durham said.

The dating app Hinge has become a place for football fans to find accommodation when attending the World Cup. Illustration: Pexels

Many social media users have noted that this phenomenon is prevalent during the World Cup season, especially among male fans. One user shared that they stopped chatting after a man they met on Hinge asked to stay at their place for one week when visiting New York.

A woman in a city that hosts an annual road race also shared a similar experience. About one month before the event, she connected with a man via the app and received a request to stay at her home. She subsequently ended communication.

Beyond finding accommodation, dating apps are also being utilized for other everyday needs. In New York, many women use these platforms to find assistance with assembling furniture in their homes.

Storm Halestrap, 24 years old, living in Brooklyn, stated she once used Hinge to find someone to help assemble furniture. She believes this approach benefits both parties: one person has the opportunity to help, and the other gets household tasks completed.

Ngoc Ngan (According to New York Post)