With just 30 days until the 2026 World Cup kicks off, Los Angeles organizers have clarified a key point of confusion: Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will not be involved in security at SoFi Stadium. Kathryn Schloessman, president of the LA 2026 World Cup Host Committee, acknowledged her earlier comments about ICE's role were a misstatement. The security plan now relies on local, state, and other federal agencies, with no immigration enforcement at primary match venues.
SoFi Stadium, temporarily renamed “Los Angeles Stadium,” is undergoing a major transformation to meet FIFA standards. The venue's usual artificial turf is being replaced with a natural grass surface grown in Washington state and transported in stages. Organizers have implemented 24-hour surveillance to protect the new pitch, ensuring no one steps on it before the opening match between the United States and Paraguay on June 12. The stadium will host eight matches, including a quarterfinal, under strict turf management.
Getting to the Game: Transport and Parking
Transporting tens of thousands of fans across Southern California is a logistical challenge. Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins announced 300 dedicated shuttle buses for each match day, operating from 15 park-and-ride lots in Los Angeles and Orange counties. A one-way shuttle ride costs $1.75, designed to ease congestion without disrupting regular public transit. For more details on navigating the parking situation, check out our guide on how to navigate the World Cup parking crunch at SoFi Stadium.
Expanded metro service will also run on match days, offering fans additional options to reach the stadium. The goal is to keep traffic flowing and make the experience accessible for everyone, whether they're coming from Boyle Heights, Santa Monica, or further afield.
Fan Zones and Cultural Events
The World Cup experience extends beyond the stadium. Organizers have programmed 39 days of cultural and entertainment activities across ten official fan zones. The official festival kicks off on June 11 at the Memorial Coliseum, with tickets starting at $10. Fans without match tickets can watch live broadcasts and enjoy cultural programming. Iconic locations like Venice Beach, Union Station, and the Pomona Fairplex will serve as gathering points, with most events free or low-cost.
This approach mirrors the inclusive spirit of past World Cups, where fan zones become hubs for community celebration. For those planning their trip, it's worth noting that SoFi Stadium has also hosted major concerts, like Karol G's Tropitour, which drew massive crowds and tested the venue's logistics.
As the tournament approaches, organizers emphasize that safety and mobility are top priorities. The absence of ICE from security roles addresses concerns from immigrant communities, while the robust transport plan aims to make the World Cup a memorable event for all Angelenos and visitors from across the Americas.
