SOCCER’S BIGGEST TOURNAMENT BRINGS THE WORLD TO THE SOUTHLAND
Every four years, the planet pauses for soccer. The FIFA World Cup is the largest sporting event on Earth, drawing billions of viewers and uniting fans across continents. In 2026, the tournament will make history when it is jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada — and Southern California will be one of its biggest stages.
With several matches scheduled at SoFi Stadium and teams training here in Orange County, local soccer fans will have a rare chance to experience the excitement of the World Cup in their own backyard.
A BRIEF HISTORY
The first FIFA World Cup was held in 1930 in Uruguay, with just 13 teams participating. Organized by the global governing body FIFA, the tournament was designed to crown a true world champion of soccer.
Over the decades, the competition expanded dramatically. Teams from Brazil, Germany, Argentina and Italy have dominated the trophy’s history.
The tournament first came to the United States in 1994, when matches were held in Los Angeles, Dallas and Chicago.
WORLD CUP TODAY
In 2026, the tournament will expand again — this time to 48 teams and a record 104 matches across 16 host cities in North America.
Every World Cup produces moments that instantly become part of sports lore. Stunning last-minute goals, penalty shootouts and breakout performances often define the tournament.
In recent editions, stars such as Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Cristiano Ronaldo have delivered unforgettable plays. Their skill, from curling free kicks to dramatic extra-time goals, has helped elevate the global popularity of soccer.
The 2026 event promises similar drama. The tournament format will include larger groups, meaning more international matchups and more opportunities for unexpected upsets. Underdog nations often emerge as fan favorites, upsetting traditional powers and creating the kind of unpredictable excitement that makes the World Cup special.
For American fans, attention will focus on the United States Men’s National Soccer Team. The team will open its World Cup campaign against Paraguay national football team in Southern California, a match that could set the tone for the entire group stage.
The United States squad will also train nearby at the Great Park Sports Complex, which has been selected as the team’s base camp during the group stage.
Fans will watch closely to see whether the U.S. can advance deep into the tournament — something the team has not done since reaching the quarterfinals in 2002.
While World Cup matches will be spread across North America, Southern California will host some of the tournament’s most anticipated games.
The Los Angeles region is scheduled to host eight World Cup matches, including five group-stage games and several knockout contests.
For local soccer fans, the 2026 World Cup represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity. Instead of watching from afar, Southern Californians will be able to see the world’s best players compete live.
From dramatic group-stage matches to the intensity of the knockout rounds, the tournament promises unforgettable moments. When the world gathers in Southern California this summer, the thrill of competition, skill of players and roar of the crowds at SoFi Stadium will echo around the globe.