The FIFA 2026 World Cup is shaping up to be one of the biggest sporting events in history - and for soccer gains in the United States, it’s especially exciting. For the first time since 1994, the men’s World Cup will be held in North America, with matches taking place across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Even better? Some of those matches will happen right here at Seattle’s very own Lumen Field!
The 2026 tournament will feature 48 teams, up from the usual 32, making it the largest World Cup ever. This means more countries, more matches, and more chances for fans to experience the magic of soccer’s greatest competition. Stadiums in cities like Los Angeles, New York, Dallas, and Atlanta will host games, but Seattle stands out for its passionate sports culture and loud, dedicated fans. Lumen Field, home to the Seattle Sounders and Seahawks, is known for its thunderous noise. It’s easy to imagine how incredible it will be when the World Cup soccer takes over the city.
Hosting the World Cup is also a big deal off the field. It’s expected to bring thousands of international visitors and millions of dollars in tourism. Local businesses, restaurants, and hotels will see massive boosts in revenue, and Seattle will have the chance to showcase its diverse culture and love of sports to the world. The city is already preparing by making transportation upgrades and planning fan zones where people can gather to watch matches together.
For U.S. soccer fans, the tournament is also a chance to see how much the sport has grown nationally. The U.S. Men’s National Team will get the benefit of home-field advantage, and young American players are more skilled than ever before. The American fans are hopeful that this could be the team’s best performance yet.
Whether you’re a lifelong soccer fan or new to the sport, the 2026 World Cup will be an unforgettable experience. From the thunderous cheering all across the continent, echoing across the globe, this tournament is sure to be one like never before. So come and watch some games in Lumen Field, whether or not you're supporting the American team.