If you’ve walked past Lumen Field lately, it looks normal. Same blue seats, same salty breeze off Elliott Bay. But in just a few months, this place is going to turn into the epicenter of the soccer universe. People keep asking when is the world cup in seattle, and honestly, the answer is a lot more packed than just a single date. We aren't just getting a random game; we are getting a month-long takeover that includes the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) playing a massive group stage match right here in the Pacific Northwest.
Seattle is one of 16 host cities for the FIFA World Cup 2026, and the schedule is finally locked in. It’s six games. Six opportunities to see the world's best players on our turf.
The Official Seattle World Cup 2026 Schedule
The tournament kicks off globally on June 11, 2026, but Seattle’s journey begins a few days later. You need to mark your calendar for June 15 through July 6. That’s the window.
Monday, June 15, 2026, is the opener for us. It’s a Group G clash between Belgium and Egypt. Think about that for a second. We’re likely seeing Kevin De Bruyne or the next generation of Belgian "Golden Generation" talent facing off against Mo Salah (if the stars align for his international career) at noon.
Then comes the big one. Friday, June 19, 2026. The United States vs. Australia.
This isn't just a friendly; it’s a competitive Group D match on Juneteenth. The atmosphere is going to be electric. You’ve got the American squad—probably featuring stars like Christian Pulisic and Gio Reyna—playing a meaningful World Cup game in a stadium known for being the loudest in the country. If you don't have tickets for this specific Friday at 12:00 PM, you’ll definitely want to be at a viewing party in Pioneer Square.
The Full Slate of Matches at Lumen Field
After the USMNT game, the momentum doesn't stop. We have two more group stage matches before moving into the high-stakes knockout rounds.
On Wednesday, June 24, we host a Group B match. It’s Qatar against a UEFA playoff winner. That winner could be Italy, Wales, Northern Ireland, or Bosnia and Herzegovina. Imagine the Italian national team bringing their Azzurri flair to the 206. It’s a real possibility.
The final group stage match in Seattle happens Friday, June 26. Egypt returns to face Iran. This one is a late kickoff at 8:00 PM PT. It’s basically the kickoff to Pride weekend in Seattle, and the city is going to be absolutely buzzing.
Then things get serious.
- Round of 32: Wednesday, July 1. This is Match 82.
- Round of 16: Monday, July 6. This is Match 94.
When you think about when is the world cup in seattle, you have to realize that by July 6, the stakes are "win or go home." These aren't just games; they are national dramas.
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Why Seattle Was Picked (And What to Expect)
FIFA didn't just throw a dart at a map. They chose Seattle because of the culture. We have a soccer history that goes back to the NASL Sounders in the 70s. We have the "March to the Match."
Lumen Field will be renamed "Seattle Stadium" for the duration of the tournament because FIFA is very particular about commercial naming rights. They are also replacing the turf with real grass. Yes, a temporary grass pitch is being installed specifically for these six games to meet international standards.
Logistics will be a bit of a nightmare, let's be real. Between the light rail, the ferry terminal, and the usual I-5 traffic, getting to SODO will require a plan. The city is expecting hundreds of thousands of visitors. It’s basically six Super Bowls in the span of three weeks.
Tips for Scoring Tickets and Planning Your Visit
Getting tickets is a process. FIFA doesn't just put them on Ticketmaster and let it be a free-for-all. There are phases.
- The FIFA Draw: The groups are mostly set, but the ticket portal is where the real action is.
- The Lottery: Most fans will get tickets through a randomized draw. You have to register on the FIFA website.
- Resale: There will be an official resale platform. Don't buy from a guy on a street corner near Pike Place.
If you are coming from out of town, book your hotel now. Seriously. Prices for June 2026 are already starting to look like phone numbers. Look at neighborhoods like Capitol Hill or even Northgate—basically anywhere near a Link Light Rail station. You do not want to be trying to park a rental car near the stadium on June 19.
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Actionable Next Steps:
- Register for Ticket Alerts: Go to the official FIFA World Cup website and sign up for the 2026 ticket portal. It’s the only way to get legitimate info.
- Check the Schedule: If you’re a local, look at those six dates (June 15, 19, 24, 26, and July 1, 6). If you aren't a soccer fan, these are the days you might want to work from home or avoid downtown.
- Follow SeattleFWC26: The local organizing committee is the best source for "Fan Fest" locations and volunteer opportunities.
Seattle is about to show the world how much we love the beautiful game. See you at the stadium.