World Cup brings the spotlight to Los Angeles; Games begin June 11
THE ORIGINAL FARMERS MARKET will host an official FIFA Fan Zone in June
The FIFA World Cup is happening once again, and this is the first iteration of the sports event to feature three host countries. The U.S., Canada, and Mexico will all collectively host the prestigious soccer tournament, with Los Angeles hosting eight matches itself.
Beginning Thurs., June 11, and running until Sun., July 19, this year’s World Cup features an expanded field of 48 teams, up from the previous 32. Eleven cities across the U.S. will host matches along with two in Canada and three in Mexico. All Los Angeles matches will be held at SoFi Stadium; however, due to FIFA’s strict contracts regarding sponsorships, it will be known as Los Angeles Stadium for the duration of the tournament.
While it may lack the pomp and prestige of the Olympics, the World Cup is watched by more viewers around the world than any other event. The group stage, in which all 48 teams play three matches, lasts from Thurs., June 11, to Sat., June 27. Los Angeles will host five group stage matches, including two matches for Team USA, as well as Belgium, Switzerland, Turkey, Paraguay, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iran, and New Zealand.
After the group stage comes the elimination rounds. Los Angeles will host two matches in the first elimination round on Sun., June 28, and Thurs., July 2. L.A.’s final World Cup match is the quarterfinal match Fri., July 10.
Tickets to the World Cup, held every four years, have made headlines for their high resale prices, with low-level group stage matches still starting in the hundreds of dollars and late-stage elimination matches costing thousands. FIFA has, however, partnered with the city and local businesses to create official Fan Zones. The first Fan Zone will be held at The Original Farmers Market from Thurs., June 18, to Sun., June 21. It will feature two massive viewing screens, a family fun zone, and a beer garden alongside food and drink from the Farmers Market’s many vendors. In an effort to increase accessibility for fans, FIFA has set starting ticket prices at just $5 for one day, or $17 for a four-day pass. Other Fan Zones will be held throughout the tournament, including one at Union Station from Thurs., June 25, to Sun., June 28.
Separate from FIFA, the Mayor’s office has announced a “Kick it in the Park” series of free watch parties across Los Angeles. Over 100 match screenings will be held at sites such as Westwood Recreation Center, Seoul International Park, and Echo Park Lake.
For more information on FIFA and the FIFA Fan Zones, visit losangelesfwc26.com. For more on the “Kick it in the Park” watch parties, visit kickit.lacity.gov.
By Jack Brownlee
Category: News
