Lumen Field World Cup 2026 Schedule, Location & Fan Guide – Seattle
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to bring the beautiful game to the Pacific Northwest, with Seattle playing a central role.
Lumen Field, one of the premier soccer stadiums in the United States, will host a one-group stage match for Team USA.
For the duration of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Lumen Field will be referred to as Seattle Stadium, in keeping with FIFA’s policy of using neutral venue names for the tournament.
Lumen Field, located in Seattle, Washington, is a multi-purpose stadium opened in 2002 and home to the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks and MLS’s Seattle Sounders FC.
For the World Cup, its seating capacity will be expanded to accommodate over 69,000 spectators, up from its standard configuration of 68,000 fixed seats.
World Cup 2026 Teams Playing at Lumen Field
Confirmed national teams for group-stage matches at Seattle Stadium include Belgium, Egypt, USA, Australia, Qatar, IR Iran (Islamic Republic of Iran), and the UEFA Playoff A Winner (one of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Italy, Northern Ireland, or Wales).
These teams represent a broad mix from UEFA (Belgium, UEFA Playoff A Winner), CONCACAF (USA), AFC (Australia, Qatar, IR Iran), and CAF (Egypt), bringing European tactics, American home support, Asian dynamism, and African flair to the venue.
The assigned intercontinental playoff qualifier is the UEFA Playoff A Winner, set to face Qatar in Group B.Teams were allocated through the FIFA draw in December 2025, organising the 48 nations into 12 groups of four based on seeding pots.
West Coast venues like Seattle were clustered in regional pods to reduce travel demands, optimize logistics, and enhance fan experiences while maintaining competitive balance.
How Many World Cup Matches Will Be Played at Lumen Field?
A total of six matches will be hosted at Seattle Stadium, making it a key West Coast site in the 104-game tournament.
The breakdown includes four group-stage matches and two knockout games: one Round of 32 and one Round of 16.
This progression from group rivalries to elimination drama, including potential U.S. advancement paths, adds high stakes and excitement.
The date range spans from June 15 to July 6, 2026, fitting within the overall tournament schedule from June 11 to July 19.
Seattle World Cup 2026 Match Schedule at Lumen Field
Lumen Field will host several FIFA World Cup 2026 matches during both the group stage and the knockout rounds, establishing Seattle as a key tournament hub in the western United States.
Group-stage fixtures are scheduled for 15 to 26 June 2026, featuring a diverse lineup of national teams competing under the expanded 48-team format.
In addition to group matches, knockout-round fixtures will be held on 1 to 6 July 2026, with participating teams determined by group-stage results.
Matches are scheduled in Pacific Time (PT), with afternoon and evening kickoffs to align with global viewership, local climate, and broadcast needs.
Group-stage matches
- Monday, June 15, 2026: Belgium vs. Egypt (Group G) – 12:00 PM PT / 3:00 PM ET
- Friday, June 19, 2026: USA vs. Australia (Group D) – 12:00 PM PT / 3:00 PM ET
- Wednesday, June 24, 2026: UEFA Playoff A Winner (Bosnia and Herzegovina/Italy/Northern Ireland/Wales) vs. Qatar (Group B) – 12:00 PM PT / 3:00 PM ET
- Friday, June 26, 2026: Egypt vs. IR Iran (Group G) – 12:00 PM PT / 3:00 PM ET
Knockout-stage matches
- Wednesday, July 1, 2026: Round of 32 – Group G winners vs. third place from Groups A/E/H/I/J – 5:00 PM PT / 8:00 PM ET
- Monday, July 6, 2026: Round of 16 – Winners of Match 81 vs. Winners of Match 82 – 5:00 PM PT / 8:00 PM ET
Where Is Lumen Field Located in California?
The full address is 800 Occidental Ave S, Seattle, WA 98134.
It is situated in the SoDo district, about 1 mile south of downtown Seattle, within walking distance of Pioneer Square and the waterfront.
The stadium is part of the Seattle Stadium District, near T-Mobile Park (MLB’s Seattle Mariners) and key landmarks like the Space Needle (3 miles north) and Pike Place Market (2 miles north).
Easily reached via major highways such as I-5 and I-90. Public transport is robust with Sound Transit’s Link light rail stopping at Stadium Station right outside, King County Metro buses, and Sounder commuter rail.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is 13 miles south, with direct light rail connections. The walkable area makes it convenient for fans staying downtown.
Lumen Field World Cup 2026 Fan Guide
Attending a FIFA World Cup 2026 match at Lumen Field offers a unique blend of world-class football and Seattle’s passionate sports culture.
Known for its intense atmosphere, modern facilities, and downtown waterfront location, Lumen Field provides one of the most electric matchday environments in the tournament.
From best seating areas and entry procedures to public transport, parking, food options, and nearby hotels, this fan guide covers everything supporters need to know before arriving at Lumen Field for the World Cup.
Best Seating Areas for Soccer Matches
For soccer, sideline seats in the 100-200 levels provide the best end-to-end views and immersion. Endline seating behind goals offers close-up excitement for set pieces but may obscure distant action.
Lower bowl (100 level) delivers proximity to the pitch, while upper tiers (300 level) are budget-friendly with broad overviews.
Club and premium seating in the 200 level includes perks like cushioned seats and lounge access.
Sun exposure at Lumen Field favors the west side in afternoons—choose east-side sections for shade.
For supporter atmospheres, opt for north-end sections (131-144) near fan groups for chants and energy.
Stadium Entry Times & Arrival Tips
Gates open 2-3 hours before kickoff for World Cup matches to allow for security and fan activities.
Recommended arrival is 2-3 hours early, or 3-4 hours for high-profile games like the USA match, to manage crowds, traffic, and FIFA-enhanced checks. Use the stadium app for gate updates and enter via less crowded points like Gate 3.
Entry Rules, Security & Weather Tips
Entry requires digital tickets via the FIFA app and a government-issued ID for adults. Security features include metal detectors, pat-downs, and a clear bag policy (bags ≤12x6x12 inches).
Seattle’s summer weather is mild and dry with highs of 70-80°F (21-27°C), but evenings can cool—bring layers. Sun protection is advised with sunscreen and hats, as partial shade varies by seat.
Prohibited Items at Lumen Field
The stadium enforces a clear bag policy. The following items are commonly prohibited.
- Bags that are not clear or exceed the size limit (typically 12″ x 6″ x 12″).
- Outside beverages, with exceptions only for factory-sealed water bottles or empty plastic water bottles.
- Alcohol from outside sources.
- Professional cameras with detachable lenses, tripods, and selfie sticks.
- Any form of weapon, projectile, or flare.
Getting to Lumen Field by Public Transport
Public transport is the most efficient way to reach the stadium. Sound Transit’s Link light rail connects directly to Stadium Station from the SEA Airport, downtown, or the suburbs.
King County Metro buses (routes like 101, 150) serve the area, with enhanced matchday service. Sounder commuter rail from north/south suburbs stops nearby.
Rideshares like Uber/Lyft are convenient, but expect surges—use designated zones at Occidental Ave.
- Link Light Rail: The most direct service. Use the Stadium Station (closest) or International District/Chinatown Station (a short walk).
- Buses: Numerous King County Metro bus routes stop near the stadium on 4th Ave S or within a few blocks.
- Rideshare/Taxis: Designated pick-up and drop-off zones will be established on the perimeter of the stadium complex. Use the address 801 Occidental Ave S for rideshare apps.
Parking, Ride-Share & Drop-Off Areas
On-site parking is available in the Lumen Field garage and surrounding lots, but it is extremely limited. Pre-purchasing a parking pass online is essential for anyone planning to drive. Expect significant traffic congestion on event days.
Designated ride-share drop-off/pick-up zones are along Occidental Ave and King St. Post-match traffic can delay exits by 30-60 minutes, so consider public transit alternatives.
Food, Entertainment & Fan Zones in Seattle
Inside the Stadium: Lumen Field is renowned for its diverse and locally-inspired food options.
You can enjoy everything from Ivar’s famous fish and chips and Bam Bam smash burgers to Korean BBQ sandwiches, vegan jackfruit carnitas nachos at Tierra Madre, and pizza from Tutta Bella.
For a quick beer, look for the “Grab & Go” markets with value-priced beers and snacks.
Outside the Stadium: The main fan hub will be the Seattle Fan Celebration at Seattle Center, which will feature large screens, cultural activities, and food vendors.
Closer to the stadium, the Pioneer Square historic district offers numerous pubs and restaurants for pre- and post-match gatherings.
Hotels Near Lumen Field
Near the Stadium: The Silver Cloud Hotel – Seattle Stadium is directly across the street. Several other hotels are located in the Pioneer Square and International District neighborhoods, within a 10-15 minute walk.
Downtown Seattle: A vast array of hotels exists in the downtown core, all connected to the stadium via a short light rail trip or a pleasant 20-minute walk.
Budget-Friendly: Look for options near light rail stations further south (like Beacon Hill or Rainier Valley) or north (like Capitol Hill or the University District) for easier transit access.