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5 MLS Stadiums Set to Host 2026 FIFA World Cup Matches

5 MLS Stadiums Set to Host 2026 FIFA World Cup Matches

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be a landmark event in the history of soccer. It will be the first time that the same edition of the tournament will be hosted by three countries: The United States, Canada, and Mexico. It will also be the first World Cup to feature the new expanded 48-team format, up from the current 32 teams.

The World Cup is a major sporting event, attracting billions of viewers worldwide. In the US alone, the tournament draws almost 3.59 million viewers. As interest in the sport grows, many online betting sites that offer betting with Mastercard have already listed their favorites for the 2026 World Cup, with France leading the way at +500 right now.

Set to be held between June 8th and Jule 3rd, 2026, the tournament will be played across 16 stadiums. Five of these are MLS stadiums, highlighting the growing popularity of soccer in North America. Here's a look at the unique history, features, and state-of-the-art facilities of each of the five 2026 World Cup-hosting MLS stadiums:

Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta

The Mercedes-Benz Stadium is located in Atlanta, Georgia and is home to the MLS side Atlanta United FC and the NFL side Atlanta Falcons. One of the best MLS stadiums, this ultra-modern stadium was opened in 2017. It has a seating capacity of 71,000, expandable to 75,000, making it among the top biggest MLS stadiums. The Mercedes Benz Stadium will host eight World Cup games, five group stage games, and one game each in the Round of 32, Round of 16, and Semifinal.

Gillette Stadium, Boston

Located in Foxborough, Massachusetts, Gillette Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium. It is home to the New England Revolution and the NFL's New England Patriots. Opened in 2002, it can accommodate over 65,000 spectators, making it the second-largest MLS stadium hosting the 2026 World Cup. It is currently undergoing renovations as part of preparations for the tournament. Gilette Stadium will host seven games, five group stage games, and one game each in the Round of 32 and Quarterfinal.

Lumen Field, Seattle

The Lumen Field in Seattle is the home to the Seattle Sounders FC in the MLS and Seattle Seahawks in the NFL. The stadium, which opened in 2002, has a capacity of 68,740 and offers stunning views of the Seattle skyline. It will host six 2026 World Cup games, including four group stage games, one game each in the Round of 32 and Round of 16.

BMO Field, Toronto

BMO Field in Toronto is the home of Toronto FC. Like the other stadiums, it is a multi-purpose stadium that hosts MLS and Canadian Football League (CFL) teams, Toronto Argonauts. Opened in 2007 and expanded several times since, it currently holds over 30,000 spectators and it is earmarked for temporary expansion to a 45,000-seater ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The stadium is located on the scenic shores of Lake Ontario, providing a picturesque setting for soccer matches, and is set to host six games, five in the group stages and one in the Round of 32.

BC Place, Vancouver

The fifth MLS World Cup 2026 stadium is BC Place in Vancouver, Canada. One of Canada's premier sports venues, BC Place is the home to the Vancouver Whitecaps FC and CFL side BC Lions. Opened in 1983, it was extensively renovated in 2011 and currently seats 54,000 spectators. It features a retractable roof, among other modern facilities, making it a prime choice for hosting World Cup matches.

Conclusion

The selection of these MLS stadiums as host venues for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is a significant milestone for soccer in the US and Canada. It not only reflects the growing popularity of the sport in these countries but also the quality and capacity of these stadiums to host such a prestigious international event. These stadiums, each with unique characteristics, are set to provide a stage as the world's greatest soccer tournament comes to an MLS stadium near you.




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