Wave Wire Services
INGLEWOOD — Less than a month away from the start of the 2026 World Cup, local organizers outlined preparations May 12 on hosting matches at SoFi Stadium.
The Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Host Committee held a media event in the Inglewood venue, designated as “Los Angeles Stadium” for the tournament, and provided updates on operations, fan engagement and community planning.
“The 2026 FIFA World Cup is finally here, and we’re excited about all the opportunities Angelenos and visitors from around the world will have to participate in the world’s biggest sporting event here in the sports capital of the world,” Host Committee CEO Kathryn Schloessman said.
“This spectacular stadium will host the U.S. Men’s National Team opening match, and seven more matches over 39 days this summer. But the World Cup experience is more than just the eight matches at SoFi, Los Angeles Stadium.
“The L.A. World Cup experience is 39 days of soccer-themed events taking place around our region, giving visitors an opportunity to see all that L.A. has to offer.”
The group stage begins June 12 with the United States facing Paraguay. The Inglewood venue will also host two Round of 32 matches and a quarterfinal scheduled for July 10.
“The world game is coming to the greatest city in the world: Los Angeles,” Earvin “Magic” Johnson said. “And I’m so thrilled because fans from all over the world will get a chance not only to see some great soccer being played here, but also to enjoy our city at the same time. When you think about the financial impact that’s going to have on Los Angeles, it’s going to be amazing.”
Crews at SoFi Stadium were preparing to install a specially cultivated natural grass surface ahead of the tournament, with the first shipments of sod expected to arrive the next day from Washington state.
Officials said the grass is being harvested and transported in stages to minimize travel time and preserve field conditions before installation begins. Security will oversee the area around the clock once the grass is installed to ensure the surface remains protected ahead of the June 12 opener.
Organizers said additional preparations include the rollout of regional fan zones, transportation planning with expanded transportation services and the debut of special World Cup TAP cards for transit riders.
The World Cup experience in Los Angeles will extend beyond the matches at SoFi Stadium with 39 days of fan programming planned throughout the region.
Events will begin with the Official FIFA Fan Festival Los Angeles from June 11-14 at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, featuring live match broadcasts, entertainment and cultural programming, organizers said. Tickets start at $10, while children 12 and younger will be admitted free.
Following the festival, 10 official Fan Zones will operate across the region during the tournament, giving fans community gathering places to watch matches and participate in World Cup-related events.
“As one of the most diverse and dynamic destinations in the world, the Los Angeles region is uniquely positioned to host an event of this scale,” said Larry Freedman, co-chair of the Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Host Committee. “This tournament will leave a lasting impact on our communities, economy, and regional legacy long after the final whistle.”
Organizers said the World Cup transportation plan will include expanded bus service, park-and-ride options, rideshare access and parking near venues to help fans travel throughout the region during the tournament.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is expected to serve as a primary transportation option, with fares starting at $1.75 each way and additional service planned to reduce congestion around the stadium and fan event sites.
“We’ve been working closely to expand and enhance service across our systems, so fans have safe, reliable and convenient ways to get to the matches and fan experiences throughout the tournament,” MTA CEO Stephanie Wiggins said. “:Whether fans choose rail, bus or our enhanced service options, we want getting around Los Angeles to be part of a seamless and enjoyable FIFA World Cup experience.”
The 2026 World Cup, which will be held across the United States, Mexico and Canada, is expected to be the largest in the tournament’s history, featuring 104 matches.
