Arrowhead Stadium World Cup 2026 Schedule & Dates – Kansas City
From June to July 2026, Kansas City will take centre stage as one of the host cities for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The iconic Arrowhead Stadium, one of the most renowned sporting venues in the United States, will welcome the world’s best national teams as global football arrives in the Midwest.
For the tournament, Arrowhead Stadium will be temporarily renamed “Kansas City Stadium” in line with FIFA naming regulations.
Known primarily as the home of the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs, the stadium will undergo tournament-specific modifications, including the installation of a natural grass pitch, to meet FIFA’s technical requirements.
With a seating capacity of approximately 76,400 for World Cup matches, Arrowhead Stadium will rank among the largest venues at the 2026 tournament.
Its size, atmosphere, and passionate local fanbase make it an ideal stage for high-profile group-stage fixtures and potentially decisive knockout encounters.
This guide provides the complete World Cup 2026 schedule at Arrowhead Stadium, including match dates, team information, and essential fan details for supporters planning to attend matches in Kansas City.
World Cup 2026 Teams Playing at Arrowhead Stadium
The confirmed national teams scheduled to play group-stage matches at Arrowhead Stadium (officially named Kansas City Stadium during the tournament) include Argentina, Algeria, Ecuador, Curaçao, Tunisia, the Netherlands, and Austria.
These teams represent four continents — South America, Africa, Europe, and North America/Caribbean — highlighting the global diversity of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
While no playoff qualifiers are assigned to Kansas City’s group-stage fixtures, the stadium will also host knockout-stage matches, featuring teams advancing from earlier rounds.
These could potentially include qualifiers emerging from Groups D, E, I, J, K, and L, depending on tournament results.
Team placements were determined during the official FIFA World Cup 2026 draw held in December 2025, which divided the 48 qualified nations into 12 groups of four.
Host cities were allocated matches based on regional travel pods to reduce travel demands, with Kansas City positioned within the central United States cluster.
How Many World Cup Matches Will Be Played at Arrowhead Stadium?
Arrowhead Stadium will host a total of six matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. These include four group stage matches, one Round of 32 knockout game, and one quarter-final match.
Kansas City World Cup 2026 Match Schedule at Arrowhead Stadium
Matches will span from June 16 to July 11, 2026, covering three weeks of the tournament.
Group-stage overviewThe group-stage matches feature competitive fixtures from Groups E, F, and J:
- Tuesday, June 16, 2026: Argentina vs. Algeria (Group J) – 9:00 PM ET
- Saturday, June 20, 2026: Ecuador vs. Curaçao (Group E) – 8:00 PM ET
- Thursday, June 25, 2026: Tunisia vs. Netherlands (Group F) – 9:00 PM ET
- Saturday, June 27, 2026: Algeria vs. Austria (Group J) – 8:00 PM ET
Knockout-stage overview
- Friday, July 3, 2026: Round of 32 (Match 87: Group K winners vs. third place from Groups D/E/I/J/L) –9:00 PM ET
- Saturday, July 11, 2026: Quarter-final (Match 100: Winners of Matches 95 and 96) – 8:00 PM ET
Where Is Arrowhead Stadium Located in Kansas City?
Arrowhead Stadium (officially known as GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium) is located in Kansas City, Missouri, near the interchange of Interstate 70 and Interstate 435, providing convenient access from across the metropolitan area.
The stadium is part of the Truman Sports Complex, situated approximately 10 miles southeast of downtown Kansas City, and sits adjacent to Kauffman Stadium, home of the Kansas City Royals.
Surrounded by major highways including I-70, I-435, and US-40, the complex is easily accessible by car from both the city center and surrounding suburbs. For fans using public transportation, the KCATA Route 47 bus provides service to the stadium on event days.
Arrowhead Stadium World Cup 2026 Fan Guide
Attending a FIFA World Cup 2026 match at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City promises an unforgettable matchday atmosphere, but proper planning will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
From seating options and stadium entry to transportation, parking, food, and nearby accommodations, this fan guide covers everything supporters need to know before arriving at Kansas City Stadium on matchday
Best Seating Areas for Soccer Matches
For the best views of tactical play, sideline seats (sections 101-106, 115-120, 127-132 on the lower level) offer the best views of the action, allowing fans to follow plays across the full pitch. End-zone seating (behind the goals) provides a closer look at goal-scoring opportunities but can limit visibility for midfield play.
Stadium Entry Times & Arrival Tips
While official World Cup gate opening times are not yet announced, for major events, gates typically open 2 hours before kickoff.
Plan to arrive at least 60-90 minutes early to account for security screening, find your seat, and soak in the pre-match atmosphere. A major tailgating culture exists in the vast parking lots, so arriving even earlier to join the festivities is a beloved local tradition.
Entry Rules, Security & Weather Tips
Fans aged 18+ need a government-issued ID for alcohol purchases. All tickets are digital; printouts are not accepted. Children under 2 enter free but must sit on a lap.
June-July in Kansas City brings hot, humid weather with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C). Thunderstorms are possible, so check forecasts.
Stay hydrated with water stations inside; bring empty reusable bottles. Wear light clothing, sunscreen, and hats. The stadium offers shaded areas in upper levels, but lower seats can be exposed.
Prohibited Items at Arrowhead Stadium
Prohibited items include weapons, explosives, drones, large flags with poles, professional cameras, outside food/drinks (except medical needs), and any hazardous materials.
Additional bans cover umbrellas, coolers, backpacks larger than 12x6x12 inches, noise-makers, and tobacco products. Clear bags are recommended for faster entry. Refer to FIFA and stadium security guidelines for the full list of prohibited items.
Getting to Arrowhead Stadium by Public Transport
Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) offers bus routes like the 47-Broadway, but service is limited on matchdays with no direct stadium shuttles.
Public transport can be crowded and infrequent, making it less reliable than driving. Rideshares or taxis are better alternatives for non-drivers.
Plan routes via the KCATA app; expect delays post-game. Walking from nearby stops is about 1-2 miles.
Parking, Ride-Share & Drop-Off Areas
The Truman Sports Complex has over 20,000 parking spaces, but lots fill quickly. Capacity for World Cup events will be managed with reserved spots.
Purchase parking passes in advance via the FIFA or Chiefs app to guarantee a spot. Prices typically range from $50–100, depending on proximity and demand.
Designated ride-share drop-off/pick-up zones are located near Gate 5 and Dubiner Circle. Expect surge pricing and wait times up to 45 minutes after games.
Food, Entertainment & Fan Zones in Kansas City
Concessions include classic stadium fare like hot dogs, nachos, and beer, plus local twists such as Kansas City-style brisket sandwiches.
Kansas City is famous for barbecue—try spots like Joe’s Kansas City or Q39 for burnt ends and ribs. Other highlights include craft beer from Boulevard Brewing and Midwestern comfort food.
The official FIFA Fan Festival™ will be held in downtown Kansas City, featuring live match screenings, food trucks with global and local cuisine, music, and interactive soccer activities. Expect Midwestern BBQ alongside international options.
Hotels Near Arrowhead Stadium
Options within 2-5 miles include Best Western Plus Kansas City Sports Complex Hotel, Hotel Lotus Kansas City Stadium, and Extended Stay America Select Suites – Kansas City – Stadium.
For more amenities, stay downtown (10 miles away) at hotels like the InterContinental Kansas City at the Plaza, Loews Kansas City, or Holiday Inn Express. These offer easy access to nightlife and shuttles.