Los Angeles is preparing to host World Cup matches at SoFi Stadium, but with just 30 days until the first game, the playing surface remains a work in progress. The US men's team will open their campaign against Paraguay on 12 June at the venue, which will be known as Los Angeles Stadium for the tournament.
As of Tuesday, the pitch was still dirt, but fresh sod is set to arrive on Wednesday, transported 1,600 miles in refrigerated lorries from Washington state. The installation will take two days. Otto Benedict, SoFi Stadium’s senior vice president of facilities, said: 'This surface is the players’ stage.'
Construction on the field began on 13 April after a Monster Jam event. The stadium underwent modifications including removal of corner seats to meet FIFA specifications and installation of a new irrigation system. 'To be the place where the energy first ignites is a responsibility we don’t take lightly,' Benedict added.
Local organisers and community ambassador Magic Johnson praised the effort, noting the financial impact on Los Angeles. Tours of the stadium during the tournament are available for $86.50, and premium seating packages remain on sale. Food options include salsa verde aguachile, spiced lamb rack, and a chocolate mousse World Cup trophy.
Metro has introduced special edition TAP cards and will offer direct-to-stadium bus service from 15 park-and-ride lots for $3.75 roundtrip. 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.
