The countdown is officially on: the FIFA World Cup 2026™ is less than a year away, and football fans everywhere can now take their first steps toward securing a seat at the world’s biggest sporting event. Recently named the No. 1 U.S. city for football enthusiasts, Los Angeles will proudly host eight matches at the legendary SoFi Stadium, including the U.S. Men’s National Team’s opening game on 12 June 2026.
“There’s truly no better place to begin your World Cup experience than Los Angeles,” said Adam Burke, President and CEO of Los Angeles Tourism. “LA offers a mix of world-class sport, culture, and creativity like nowhere else. Whether you’re here for the first match or staying to explore, this city brings the world together through the power of the game.”
How to Get FIFA World Cup 26™ Tickets
The first wave of FIFA World Cup 26™ ticket sales has launched with the Visa Presale Draw, giving fans their earliest opportunity to secure match seats. To enter, fans must register for a FIFA ID at FIFA.com/tickets. Registered users will receive updates about upcoming sales phases and important deadlines.
Ticketing will open in several rounds leading up to the tournament:
- Phase 1: The first phase of FIFA World Cup 26 ticket sales is now open with the Visa Presale Draw, giving fans their first chance to secure seats. To participate, fans must register at FIFA.com/tickets and create a FIFA ID. Registered fans will receive updates on sale dates and details of the ticketing process.
- Phase 2: Early Ticket Draw (27–31 October 2025) – Successful applicants will receive a timeslot to purchase tickets (not a guarantee of tickets) during a window expected between mid-November and early December.
- Phase 3: Random Selection Draw (from 5 December 2025) – Following the Final Draw, fans can apply for specific match tickets based on the revealed group-stage schedule.
- Final Phase: Any remaining seats will be released closer to the tournament on a first-come, first-served basis.
The World Cup 26™ Celebration In Los Angeles – What to Expect and Where To Go
SoFi Stadium will serve as the home of all eight Los Angeles fixtures, featuring three group-stage games, two Round of 32 matches, and a Quarter-Final showdown. The U.S. Men’s National Team will take the field on 12 June for their debut, followed by another group-stage fixture on 25 June. Visitors can also enjoy behind-the-scenes stadium tours, available before or after matchdays.
From 11 June to 19 July 2026, football fever will take over the city with 39 days of events celebrating the global game. Alongside the official FIFA Fan Festival, additional Fan Zones will be popping up across LA, creating lively hubs for supporters from around the world.
Those wanting to soak up the local football atmosphere can explore LA’s many sports-friendly hangouts. Nearly 40 LAFC-affiliated pubs—from La Chuperia in Lincoln Heights to The Sunset Room in Hacienda Heights—offer lively viewing spots. International fans will also find a taste of home in pubs like Ye Olde King’s Head in Santa Monica, The Cat & Fiddle in Hollywood, Tom Bergin’s in Mid-City, and Ireland’s 32 in the Valley.
More Than Matches: Discover Los Angeles
Los Angeles offers far more than matchday thrills—it’s where sport meets culture, creativity, and entertainment. Between games, fans can enjoy sun-soaked beaches, diverse neighbourhoods, world-class dining, and a buzzing nightlife scene. You can see what happened on our recent trip to LA here.
With the most professional sports teams of any U.S. city, LA is a sports lover’s paradise year-round. Catch Angel City FC or LAFC at BMO Stadium, Dodgers baseball, Lakers and Clippers basketball, or Rams and Chargers at SoFi Stadium.
Excitement is also building beyond the pitch, with new openings timed around the 2026 World Cup, including:
- The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art
- Design-led hotels such as Hotel Lucille and Mama Shelter DTLA
- Universal Studios Hollywood’s Fast & Furious Rollercoaster
- Noma’s Los Angeles residency
- The return of Dine LA Restaurant Week
Getting around will be simple, thanks to LA Metro’s new SoFi Stadium Shuttle, expanded rail connections, and easy rideshare options. LAX is also undergoing major upgrades, with the Automated People Mover soon connecting all terminals to the Metro network for seamless arrivals and departures.
To start planning your trip, explore where to stay, play, and watch at DiscoverLosAngeles.com. For FIFA World Cup 2026™ ticket information, visit FIFA.com.
