With just 30 days until the United States men's national team kicks off their World Cup campaign against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium, the playing surface remains a dirt expanse. The pitch will be transformed starting Wednesday, when fresh sod transported 1,600 miles in refrigerated lorries from Washington state begins a two-day installation process.
Otto Benedict, SoFi Stadium’s senior vice president of facilities and campus operations, emphasised the importance of the surface, calling it 'the players’ stage'. Construction on the field began on 13 April after a Monster Jam event. The stadium, home to the NFL's Los Angeles Rams and Chargers, underwent modifications including the removal of corner seats to meet FIFA specifications and the installation of a new irrigation system.
Local World Cup organisers and community ambassador Magic Johnson praised the construction crews. 'When you think about the financial impact it's going to have on Los Angeles, it's going to be amazing,' said Johnson, a co-owner of LAFC and the Washington Spirit. The stadium will be known as Los Angeles Stadium for the tournament, hosting eight matches in total.
Fans can purchase tours for $86.50, with premium seating, suites and hospitality packages still available. Food options include salsa verde aguachile, spiced lamb rack, and a World Cup trophy dessert made of chocolate mousse. Metro has introduced special edition TAP cards and will offer direct-to-stadium bus service for $3.75 roundtrip from 15 park-and-ride lots. Reserved parking ranges from $55 to over $100.
The official FIFA Fan Festival will be held at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum from 11-14 June, with ten fan zones across the county hosting activities and watch parties.
