Levi’s Stadium World Cup 2026 Schedule & Dates – San Francisco Bay Area
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will bring the world’s game to the heart of Silicon Valley. Levi’s Stadium, located in Santa Clara, California, is a modern multi-purpose venue that opened in 2014 and serves as the home of the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers.
Designed with sustainability in mind, it features solar panels, recycled water systems, and a green roof, making it one of the most eco-friendly stadiums in the U.S.
For the FIFA World Cup 2026, the stadium will host matches as part of the expanded 48-team tournament co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
For the duration of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Levi’s Stadium will be known as San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in accordance with FIFA’s policy of using sponsor-neutral venue names.
The seating capacity is approximately 68,500 in its standard NFL configuration, with slight adjustments for World Cup matches to around 70,909 to accommodate soccer-specific sightlines and media requirements.
Normally equipped with artificial turf, the stadium will install a temporary natural grass surface for FIFA matches to meet international standards for pitch quality and player safety.
This guide covers the Levi’s Stadium World Cup 2026 schedule and dates, confirmed match stages, venue details, and a complete fan guide to help supporters plan their matchday experience in the San Francisco Bay Area.
World Cup 2026 Teams Playing at Levi’s Stadium
Levi’s Stadium will host matches for three different groups (B, D, and J), featuring teams from four confederations.
The confirmed national teams set to play group-stage matches in the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium include Qatar, Switzerland, Austria, Jordan, Paraguay, Australia, Algeria, and the UEFA Playoff C Winner (one of Kosovo, Romania, Slovakia, or Türkiye).
Confederation representation spans UEFA (Switzerland, Austria, UEFA Playoff C Winner), CONMEBOL (Paraguay), AFC (Qatar, Jordan, Australia), and CAF (Algeria), showcasing a mix of European powerhouses, Asian contenders, South American flair, and African talent.
The assigned intercontinental playoff qualifier is the UEFA Playoff C Winner, competing in Group D.The FIFA draw allocation occurred in December 2025, dividing the 48 qualified teams into 12 groups of four based on seeding and geographic considerations.
Regional clustering logic for West Coast venues like Levi’s Stadium focused on minimizing travel for teams in western pods, ensuring efficient logistics and reduced carbon footprint while balancing competitive integrity.
How Many World Cup Matches Will Be Played at Levi’s Stadium?
A total of six matches will be hosted at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, contributing to the tournament’s record 104 games.
The breakdown includes five group-stage matches and one knockout-stage match in the Round of 32.The date range spans from June 13 to July 1, 2026, covering the early tournament phases.
The Round of 32 fixture adds significant importance, offering high-stakes elimination soccer that could feature advancing teams from competitive groups, potentially drawing massive global viewership and creating memorable moments in the Bay Area.
San Francisco Bay Area World Cup 2026 Match Schedule at Levi’s Stadium
Levi’s Stadium will host several FIFA World Cup 2026 matches across both the group stage and knockout rounds, making it a major West Coast venue for the tournament.
Group-stage matches are scheduled to take place in 13 June 2026, featuring a mix of established football powers and emerging national teams under the new 48-team format.
In addition to group fixtures, Levi’s Stadium is expected to host knockout-stage matches in early July, with participating teams determined by results from earlier rounds.
FIFA will confirm the exact matchups, dates, and kick-off times once the tournament draw and group stage are concluded.
Matches at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium are scheduled in Pacific Time (PT), with evening and afternoon kickoffs optimised for global broadcasts, local weather, and fan attendance.
Group-stage matches
- Saturday, June 13, 2026: Qatar vs. Switzerland (Group B) – 12:00 PM PT
- Tuesday, June 16, 2026: Austria vs. Jordan (Group J) – 9:00 PM PT facebook.com
- Friday, June 19, 2026: UEFA Playoff C Winner (Kosovo/Romania/Slovakia/Türkiye) vs. Paraguay (Group D) – 12:00 PM PT
- Monday, June 22, 2026: Jordan vs. Algeria (Group J) – 5:00 PM PT
- Thursday, June 25, 2026: Paraguay vs. Australia (Group D) – 7:00 PM PT
Knockout-stage matches
- Wednesday, July 1, 2026: Round of 32 – Group D winners vs. third place from Group B/E/F/I/J – 5:00 PM PT
Where Is Levi’s Stadium Located in California?
The full address is 4900 Marie P DeBartolo Way, Santa Clara, CA 95054.
It is approximately 5 miles from downtown San Jose, 45 miles from San Francisco, and just 4 miles from San Jose International Airport (SJC), making it highly accessible for air travellers.
The stadium is part of a major entertainment complex, situated directly next to California’s Great America theme park and surrounded by the corporate campuses of Silicon Valley.
It is easily accessible from major highways, US-101, I-880, and I-280.
Levi’s Stadium World Cup 2026 Fan Guide
This guide provides essential matchday planning for international fans attending World Cup games at Levi’s Stadium in the San Francisco Bay Area.
With its tech-savvy infrastructure and diverse cultural scene, the region offers a seamless blend of soccer excitement and exploration. Expect large crowds, so plan transportation and accommodations early for a stress-free experience.
Best Seating Areas for Soccer Matches
For optimal views, sideline seating in sections 101-144 (lower bowl) allows clear sightlines across the full pitch, ideal for tracking plays. Endline views behind the goals (sections 145-154) offer proximity to scoring action but may limit midfield visibility.
Lower bowl seats provide an immersive experience, while upper tiers (300-400 levels) are more affordable with panoramic overviews. Club and premium seating in the 200 level includes amenities like air-conditioned lounges and upscale concessions.
Sun exposure is a key consideration at Levi’s Stadium, as the west side (sections 201-244) faces afternoon glare—opt for east-side shade. Best sections for supporter atmospheres are near the north end (sections 132-144), where fan groups create vibrant energy with chants and flags.
Stadium Entry Times & Arrival Tips
Gates typically open 2-3 hours before kickoff for World Cup matches, allowing time for security and pre-game festivities.
Recommended arrival is 2-3 hours early due to enhanced FIFA security protocols, traffic, and potential lines at entry points.
For high-demand games like the Round of 32, arrive 3-4 hours ahead to secure parking or transit and enjoy tailgating or fan zones.
Tips for navigating crowds: Use the stadium app for real-time updates, enter via less busy gates (e.g., Gate A or F), and carry minimal items to speed through checks.
Entry Rules, Security & Weather Tips
Entry requires digital tickets via the FIFA app and government-issued ID for adults (18+). Security includes metal detectors, pat-downs, and bag inspections under a clear bag policy (bags no larger than 12x6x12 inches).
Summer weather in Santa Clara is warm, dry, and sunny, with highs of 75-85°F (24-29°C) and low humidity—perfect for outdoor activities but watch for UV exposure. Sun protection advice: Apply sunscreen, wear hats and light clothing, and utilize shaded areas or hydration stations inside the stadium.
Prohibited Items at Levi’s Stadium
Prohibited items include non-clear bags larger than clutch size, outside food and drink (except sealed water bottles or medical needs), professional camera equipment (lenses over 3 inches), flags/poles/banners without approval, umbrellas, coolers, weapons, noise-makers, and tobacco products.
Reference official FIFA and stadium policies on the Levi’s Stadium website or FIFA app for the complete list and exceptions.
Getting to Levi’s Stadium by Public Transport
Public transport is highly recommended. The most direct option is the VTA Light Rail. The Green Line stops at the “Great America” station, which is a short walk from the stadium.
For fans coming from San Francisco or the Peninsula, connect to VTA via Caltrain at the San Jose Diridon Station. Various VTA bus routes also serve the area.
Uber/Lyft are efficient but expect surges on matchdays—use designated zones to avoid congestion.
Parking, Ride-Share & Drop-Off Areas
On-site parking offers over 20,000 spots in colour-coded lots, but availability is limited—purchase advance passes via the stadium app or FIFA site ($50-150). Tailgating is permitted in designated areas with rules.
Designated Uber/Lyft zones are at Tasman Drive and Great America Parkway for drop-offs/pick-ups. Post-match traffic can add 30-60 minutes to exits, so use apps for navigation or opt for public transit to bypass delays.
Food, Entertainment & Fan Zones in the Bay Area
Stadium concessions feature diverse options like California-style tacos, sushi, vegan bowls, and local craft beers, blending global flavours with West Coast twists.
Iconic Bay Area food includes sourdough bread, seafood from Fisherman’s Wharf, and Mission-style burritos.
The official FIFA Fan Festival location is TBA, likely in San Jose or San Francisco, offering live screenings, music, food trucks, and soccer activities.
Nearby entertainment districts include downtown San Jose’s vibrant bars and San Francisco’s nightlife in SoMa or the Mission.
Hotels Near Levi’s Stadium
Santa Clara and San Jose options include the Hyatt Regency Santa Clara (adjacent to the stadium), Hilton Santa Clara, and Avatar Hotel for convenience.
Downtown San Francisco alternatives like the Marriott Marquis or Westin St. Francis provide urban vibes with BART/Caltrain access.
Transit-friendly accommodation tips: Choose hotels near VTA or Caltrain stops for easy commutes.