Lumen Field World Cup 2026: Schedule, History, Facts & Travel Tips
Seattle welcomes the world in summer 2026. Lumen Field will host six FIFA World Cup matches during the historic 48-team tournament. The Pacific Northwest prepares to showcase its deep soccer passion on the global stage.
This marks a proud moment for Seattle’s rich soccer culture. The city has supported the beautiful game since the 1880s. Now Lumen Field joins 15 other venues across three countries to host the world’s most-watched sporting event.
Complete Match Schedule at Lumen Field
The 2026 World Cup runs from June 11 to July 19. Lumen Field will host six matches throughout the tournament. FIFA will temporarily rename the stadium “Seattle Stadium” during the World Cup to comply with corporate sponsorship regulations.
| Match Round | Date | Stage |
|---|---|---|
| Group Stage Match 1 | June 15, 2026 | Group Stage |
| Group Stage Match 2 | June 19, 2026 | Group Stage (USMNT) |
| Group Stage Match 3 | June 24, 2026 | Group Stage |
| Group Stage Match 4 | June 26, 2026 | Group Stage |
| Round of 32 Match | July 1, 2026 | Knockout Stage |
| Round of 16 Match | July 7, 2026 | Knockout Stage |
The United States Men’s National Team will play at Lumen Field on June 19, 2026. This gives Seattle fans a chance to cheer for the home team during the group stage. The stadium’s downtown location makes it one of the most accessible World Cup venues in North America.
Lumen Field History and Background
Lumen Field opened on July 28, 2002. The stadium was built to replace the aging Kingdome that was demolished in March 2000. Voters approved funding for the construction in a statewide election held in June 1997. Paul Allen, Microsoft co-founder and Seattle Seahawks owner, provided significant private funding. The total construction cost reached $430 million with $300 million coming from public funds.
The stadium was originally named Seahawks Stadium. It became Qwest Field in June 2004 when the telecommunications company purchased naming rights. CenturyLink took over naming rights in June 2011 following the acquisition of Qwest. Lumen Technologies acquired CenturyLink and renamed the venue Lumen Field in November 2020.
The Seattle Seahawks have played here since opening day. The Seattle Sounders FC joined as tenants when Major League Soccer expanded to Seattle in 2009. The Sounders quickly became one of the most successful MLS franchises. They won MLS Cup championships in 2016 and 2019. OL Reign of the National Women’s Soccer League also calls Lumen Field home.
The stadium hosted Copa América Centenario matches in 2016. CONCACAF Gold Cup games have been played here regularly since 2009. The venue will also host FIFA Club World Cup matches in 2025 as preparation for the bigger event in 2026.
Lumen Field holds the Guinness World Record for loudest crowd roar at an outdoor stadium. Seahawks fans reached 137.6 decibels during a 2013 game against the New Orleans Saints. The stadium design creates incredible noise that gives home teams a massive advantage. This earned Seattle fans the nickname “12th Man.”
Stadium Facts and Features
Lumen Field sits in the SODO neighborhood just south of downtown Seattle. The stadium provides stunning views of the Seattle skyline and Elliott Bay. Mount Rainier is visible on clear days from the upper decks.
The venue seats 68,740 for NFL games and approximately 69,000 for soccer matches. Over 70 percent of seats sit in the lower bowl close to the action. The stadium includes 126 luxury suites on multiple levels. Club seats total 7,000 and offer premium amenities.
The stadium features a partial roof that covers 70 percent of seats. The open north end provides views of downtown Seattle. This design protects fans from Seattle’s frequent rain while maintaining an outdoor atmosphere. The roof also helps trap crowd noise and direct it toward the field.
The facility uses FieldTurf artificial surface for most events. The playing surface sits on a tray system that can be removed and replaced with natural grass for major soccer tournaments. This allows the stadium to maintain pristine grass conditions for World Cup matches.
The complex sits on over 2,200 pilings driven 50 to 70 feet below ground. This foundation accounts for Seattle’s soft soil conditions and earthquake concerns. Eight individually connected sections were built to handle temperature effects and seismic activity.
The stadium earned LEED certification for environmental design. Sustainability programs include extensive recycling and composting. The venue diverts 90 percent of waste from landfills. Local food sourcing reduces carbon footprint.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Preparations (Seattle Stadium)
Lumen Field requires fewer modifications than most World Cup venues. The stadium already accommodates soccer matches with natural grass capabilities. The field dimensions meet FIFA requirements without major structural changes.
Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson approved $19.4 million for World Cup upgrades. Work includes temporary replacement of artificial turf with stitched natural grass. New seating in the Hawks Nest will replace bleacher-style seating with fully backed seats per FIFA requirements. Some corner seating will be removed to make space for media. Security upgrades include new turnstiles, bollards, lighting, and cameras.
Turf replacement will start after the conclusion of the Seahawks 2025 NFL season in early 2026. Work should be complete by May 2026. Artificial turf will be reinstalled after World Cup matches conclude.
The stadium name change to “Seattle Stadium” will be temporary. All Lumen Field branding will be covered or removed during the World Cup. Original signage will return after the tournament ends in July 2026.
Local officials expect over 2 billion viewers to watch the Seattle matches. The economic impact could reach $90 to $100 million for the region.
Travel Guide for World Cup Visitors
Getting There
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport sits 13 miles south of downtown. The airport serves over 50 million passengers annually. Link Light Rail connects the airport to downtown Seattle in 38 minutes. Expect immigration wait times of 2 to 3 hours during peak World Cup arrival periods.
Transportation Options
Lumen Field sits in one of the most transit-accessible stadium locations in North America. The stadium is a 15 to 20 minute walk from most downtown hotels.
- Link Light Rail: Stops at Stadium Station right outside the venue
- King County Metro: Multiple bus routes serve the stadium
- Seattle Streetcar: Provides additional downtown connections
- Parking: Limited and expensive ($40 to $60 for major events)
- Walking: Downtown Seattle rated “Very Walkable” (76 out of 100)
Public transit is the recommended option for match days. Avoid driving due to limited parking and expected congestion.
Where to Stay
Downtown Seattle offers the most convenient base for World Cup visitors. Hotels are expected to reach 95 percent occupancy throughout the tournament. Early reservations are critical.
- Pioneer Square: Historic charm, walking distance to stadium
- Capitol Hill: Diverse dining, excellent light rail connections
- South Lake Union: Modern hotels near waterfront
- Belltown: Urban energy north of Pike Place Market
- Downtown: Embassy Suites, Alexis Royal Sonesta, Kimpton hotels
Dining and Activities
Pike Place Market stands as Seattle’s most famous attraction. The historic market opened in 1907 and remains a working farmers market. Fresh seafood, produce, and flowers fill the stalls. The original Starbucks location sits near the market entrance.
The Space Needle provides 360-degree views from 520 feet up. Tickets cost around $35 for adults. Chihuly Garden and Glass showcases stunning art by Dale Chihuly next to the Space Needle.
Pioneer Square features Seattle’s oldest architecture. Underground tours explore the city buried after the Great Seattle Fire of 1889. Sports bars and restaurants fill the historic district near the stadium.
Local breweries produce excellent craft beer. Pike Brewing Company near Pike Place Market has brewed since 1989. The food scene emphasizes fresh Pacific Northwest ingredients. Salmon features prominently on menus.
Weather Considerations
Seattle summers are mild and pleasant. June and July bring average temperatures of 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Rain is less common than Seattle’s reputation suggests. Summer months see the least precipitation of the year. Pack layers for variable conditions. A light rain jacket provides insurance against unexpected showers.
- Official Website: https://www.lumenfield.com
- Map link: https://www.lumenfield.com/plan-your-visit/stadium-map
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lumenfield/
Lumen Field World Cup 2026 Tickets and Packages
Ticket sales began in September 2025 through a Visa Presale Draw. Successful applicants received purchase windows starting October 1, 2025. Group stage tickets start at $60.
Additional sales phases continue through December 2025. Hospitality packages are available now starting at $1,350 per person. Only purchase tickets from FIFA or authorized resellers to avoid scams.
Lumen Field World Cup 2026 FAQs
How many matches will Lumen Field host?
Lumen Field will host six World Cup matches. This includes four group stage games and two knockout round matches. The venue will also host the USMNT group stage match on June 19.
Why is the stadium being renamed Seattle Stadium?
FIFA requires host venues to remove corporate sponsor names during the World Cup. This policy prevents conflicts with official tournament sponsors. The Lumen Field name will return after the tournament.
Is the stadium close to downtown Seattle?
Yes. Lumen Field sits less than one mile south of downtown Seattle. The venue is easily walkable from Pioneer Square and other central neighborhoods. Link Light Rail connects the stadium to the entire city.
What is the stadium capacity for World Cup matches?
Lumen Field seats approximately 69,000 for soccer matches. The smaller capacity creates an intimate and loud atmosphere that intimidates visiting teams.
How do I get from the airport to the stadium?
Link Light Rail provides direct service from Sea-Tac Airport to Stadium Station. The journey takes 38 minutes. Trains run frequently throughout the day.
What is Seattle weather like during the World Cup?
Seattle summers are mild with average temperatures of 65 to 75 degrees. June and July are the driest months. Rain is possible but less common than other seasons.
Are there good restaurants near the stadium?
Yes. Pioneer Square offers numerous dining options within walking distance. Pike Place Market sits one mile north with famous seafood restaurants. The International District east of the stadium serves excellent Asian cuisine.
Should I rent a car in Seattle?
No. Seattle has excellent public transportation. Parking near the stadium is limited and expensive. Light rail, buses, and rideshares provide convenient options.
Plan Your Seattle World Cup Experience
The 2026 World Cup brings unprecedented excitement to Seattle. The city’s passionate soccer culture will create an unforgettable atmosphere. Lumen Field’s downtown location and proven soccer pedigree make it an ideal World Cup venue.
Book accommodations early as hotels fill quickly. Research transportation options and download transit apps. Start planning your journey today to experience world-class soccer in the Emerald City.
