Six Things to Look Forward to Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup

We’re now officially 100 days away from the first match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and there’s plenty to look forward to before the USMNT kicks things off on June 12. Guided by the Never Chase Reality Campaign, U.S. Soccer has launched a nationwide, inclusive celebration that brings fans closer to U.S. Men’s National Team through immersive fan hubs, live events, community-powered initiatives and more.

Here are six key milestones to look forward to as we approach the 2026 World Cup this summer.

1. U.S. Soccer World Cup Ticket Draw

To provide fans with the opportunity to apply for a chance to purchase World Cup tickets, the U.S. Soccer World Cup ticket draw application will open on March 9. Access to apply is only available to U.S. Soccer Insiders who are Premium and above. Insiders who are selected will have the opportunity to purchase tickets to select 2026 World Cup matches hosted in the United States.

2. Pre-Tournament Matches

The buildup truly begins in just a few weeks, as the USMNT will kick off a four-match pre-World Cup campaign that will feature a quartet of matches against a collection of high-quality opponents—all of which have qualified for the 2026 World Cup and are perched inside the top 15 of the FIFA Men’s World Ranking.

The U.S. gets going with a double-header against a pair of formidable European opponents in Belgium (March 28) —which have not lost a contest in nearly a year—and defending UEFA Nations League winner Portugal (March 31), both at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Ga.

The preparations continue with the Allstate Continental Clásico at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, N.C., as the U.S. face reigning AFCON champion Senegal (May 31). The USMNT will close things out with the Coca-Cola Send-Off Match against four-time World Cup champion Germany (June 6) at Soldier Field in Chicago, Ill.

3. U.S. Soccer Roster Reveal Event

Prior to the Allstate Continental Clásico against Senegal and the Coca-Cola Send-Off Match against Germany, U.S. Soccer will host a free, open-to-all Roster Reveal Event in New York City on May 26 to celebrate the 26 players selected by U.S. Men's National Team head coach Mauricio Pochettino.

The nationally broadcast event will feature player appearances, surprise guests and live entertainment, turning the roster announcement into a shared national moment as part of the 100-day countdown.

4. U.S. Soccer House presented by Bank of America

Over in Venice Beach, Calif, U.S. Soccer House presented by Bank of America, will be the home for soccer fandom in America during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Opening June 11, the immersive space will feature live match viewing, U.S. Soccer legend meet-and-greets, interactive activations, podcast recordings and exclusive fan experiences. U.S. Soccer House will be open to registered U.S. Soccer Insiders.

5. Insiders Chapters

Getting you closer to the action, Insiders Chapters are local, fan-led communities officially supported by U.S. Soccer. Launching in 12 cities, Insiders Chapters bring fans together year-round, creating belonging, connection, and a direct link with U.S. Soccer.

Insiders Chapters Locations:

• Atlanta, Ga.
• Austin, Texas
• Boston, Mass.
• Chicago, Ill.
• Denver, Colo.
• Houston, Texas
• Kansas City, Mo.
• Los Angeles, Calif.
• New York City, N.Y.
• Portland, Ore.
• San Francisco, Calif.
• Seattle, Wash.

From hosting watch parties to participating in community initiatives, Insiders Chapters serve to build and grow local U.S. Soccer support. Members also gain access to exclusive local events, custom merchandise and more.

6. Soccer Forward Fests

On the ground and in the stands across the country, Soccer Forward Fests, powered by the Soccer Forward Foundation in partnership with Common Goal, will highlight community-led soccer celebrations in cities nationwide.

Organizations can download the Soccer Forward Fest Toolkit to help create inclusive, soccer-centered experiences and then register their event as a Fest to join the movement. The initiative aims to expand access to the game, inspire youth participation and strengthen communities before, during and after the World Cup.