Los Angeles Set to Host 2026 World Cup Matches, Anticipates boost from Iranian Team & Potential Visa Exceptions
INGLEWOOD, CA – SoFi Stadium in Inglewood will be a key venue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosting eight matches, organizers announced. the selection leverages Los Angeles’ robust direct air service and accessibility as a transportation hub.
A significant draw is expected from Iran‘s participation, with Los Angeles home to the largest Iranian population outside of Iran. While Iran is not considered a tournament favorite, their two first-round matches are anticipated to attract large crowds. Organizers are also hopeful fans from across the Middle east will attend.
notably,Iran is one of 19 countries whose citizens are currently subject to U.S. entry restrictions imposed by the Trump governance. However, exceptions are already in place for players, coaches, media, and technical officials related to the World Cup. Discussions are underway to possibly extend these exceptions to include ticketed fans. “There have been active discussions about whether they would be able to make a similar exception for ticketed fans,” said tournament official Burke. “Our hope is that that might be something that still occurs.”
The match schedule at SoFi Stadium includes five games kicking off at noon, three of which are on weekdays. This timing raises concerns about potential challenges for both commuters and players, as the stadium, while covered, is not fully enclosed or climate-controlled. Last summer’s Club World Cup experienced issues with high heat and humidity, impacting play across multiple venues. A recent report by Football for the Future,Common Goal and Jupiter Intelligence identified that 10 of the 16 World Cup stadiums are at “very high risk or experiencing extreme heat-stress conditions” for the 2026 tournament.
Despite these warnings, over half of the 104 World Cup games are scheduled to begin no later than 6 p.m. local time.
“It’s hot in the summer in the United States,” remarked Alexi Lalas, a member of the 1994 U.S. World Cup team. “It was hot in the summer of 1994 and, news flash, it will be hot in the summer of 2026.”
four of the 16 World Cup stadiums are enclosed and air-conditioned, providing a potential advantage to nine teams – Argentina, Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Cape Verde, Uzbekistan, Canada, and Japan – who will play two of their three first-round games indoors.
“It’s definitely a competitive advantage,” Lalas added, “Especially for teams with older players like Lionel Messi and Cristiano ronaldo.”
