Los Angeles is set to become the epicenter of sports as it secures the U.S. Men's National Team's opening match for FIFA World Cup 26, scheduled for June 12, 2026. The City of Angels, in collaboration with the Los Angeles Host Committee and local mayors, rejoiced as FIFA confirmed SoFi Stadium in Inglewood as the selected venue. According to an announcement from the mayor's office, Los Angeles will host a total of eight matches during the tournament, further solidifying its position as a hub for international sporting events.
Mayor Karen Bass, fresh from her trip to the nation's capital, boasted the city’s readiness to embrace the global community with a diverse array of attractions. "We are honored and excited that FIFA has selected the Los Angeles region to host the U.S Men’s National Team opening match for the FIFA World Cup 26," Bass said, as reported by her official announcement. The announcement also highlights previous iconic soccer events Los Angeles has hosted, including multiple FIFA Women's World Cup Finals.
Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts emphasized the suitability of SoFi Stadium, a venue familiar with hosting high-profile events like the Super Bowl and prolific concerts. "It’s a natural fit for soccer’s biggest stage... here in the City of Champions. We can't wait to show the world what makes our City of Inglewood SHINE when hosting FIFA World Cup 26™," Butts told the mayor's office. This stage is set to spotlight Inglewood, dubbed the City of Champions, as a destination for fans and athletes alike.
The FIFA World Cup is just one of the major sporting events coming to Los Angeles, joining an impressive lineup that includes the 2024 NCAA Division I Men's Basketball West Region Championship, the 2026 U.S. Women's Open Championship, and the 2026 NBA All-Star Game. But that's not all—Super Bowl LXI in 2027 and the 2028 Olympic & Paralympic Games are also on the horizon for this sports-loving metropolis. These events are expected to bring a significant economic boost to the region, along with the pride of hosting international spectators and showcasing the city's culture and hospitality.
Bass's visit to Washington, DC underscored the importance of federal support for safety and transportation during such large-scale events. She met with other mayors from FIFA World Cup 26 host cities and White House senior officials, a trip that also served as an opportunity to discuss collaborative efforts in tackling the homelessness crisis impacting the nation. Los Angeles is set to score big not only in sports but also in solidarity and city development as it gears up for these world-class events.
