Seattle to Host Six 2026 World Cup Matches: Kickoff Times, Safety and Community Impact
Matchups and Kickoff Times Announced for Seattle’s World Cup Games
Seattle is set to host six thrilling matches during the 2026 Men’s World Cup, including four group-stage contests and two knockout round games. The schedule reveals key dates such as June 15 for the opening group match and June 19 when the U.S. Men's National Team takes the field, coinciding with Pride weekend and Juneteenth celebrations. These kickoff times are strategically planned to leverage the Pacific Northwest's mild summer climate, ensuring optimal conditions for fans and players alike.
Seattle’s Role in the Global Sporting Event
As one of the 16 host cities across North America, Seattle is preparing extensively to deliver a world-class experience. The city’s collaboration with FIFA and multiple local agencies focuses on safety, inclusivity, and vibrant fan engagement. Lumen Field, acclaimed for its atmosphere and amenities, will serve as the battleground for these pivotal matches, enhancing Seattle’s reputation as a premier sports destination.
Building Excitement and Community Impact
The 2026 World Cup in Seattle offers more than just soccer excitement; it represents a unique opportunity to unite communities and showcase the city on a global stage. From fostering civic pride to boosting local businesses, the tournament’s impact is expected to resonate well beyond the final whistle in July.
About the Organizations Mentioned
FIFA
FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association), founded in Paris in 1904, is the global governing body for association football (soccer), futsal, and beach football. Headquartered in Zürich, Switzerland, FIFA comprises 211 national football associations organized into six regional confederations spanning Africa, Asia, Europe, Oceania, South America, and North/Central America and the Caribbean[1][2][4]. FIFA’s core responsibilities include setting and enforcing the rules of the game in collaboration with the International Football Association Board (IFAB), overseeing international player transfers, and promoting football's development worldwide. It organizes major international tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup (inaugurated in 1930), the FIFA Women’s World Cup (since 1991), and the FIFA Club World Cup, providing platforms for showcasing elite talent[1][2][3][5]. The organization has a complex governance structure, with a FIFA Council of 37 members led by a president, a secretary-general managing day-to-day operations, and a FIFA Congress as the main legislative body where each national association holds voting rights. The Football Tribunal, established in 2021, resolves regulatory disputes[1][7]. FIFA has grown into a multibillion-dollar enterprise, generating over $5.8 billion in revenue during the 2019–2022 cycle and maintaining substantial cash reserves. Its 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, for instance, featured an expanded 32-team format with a prize pool of $1 billion, including a $250 million solidarity program to support global club football development[2][6][8]. Beyond competitions, FIFA invests heavily in grassroots initiatives and infrastructure through programs like FIFA Forward, aiming to foster inclusivity, integrity, and innovation throughout the sport. It leverages technology and media platforms such as FIFA+ to broaden football’s global reach and engagement[3][4][10]. FIFA remains
