Seattle Gears Up for 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Matches

SEATTLE, Washington — Soccer fans in the Pacific Northwest have much to anticipate this summer as Seattle prepares to host six matches in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. The tournament takes place from June 15-25 at Lumen Field, welcoming teams from across the globe, including the local Seattle Sounders FC.

This marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time the United States is hosting the FIFA Club World Cup, featuring 32 elite club teams. The tournament is expected to draw between 100,000 and 150,000 visitors to the region during this ten-day event.

The matches will occur on both weekdays and weekends, providing a hectic schedule that overlaps with home games for the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park. With anticipated attendance on par with Seahawks games, reliable transit service is paramount for accommodating both visitors and local commuters.

In response, Sound Transit has enacted plans modeled after their strategies for Seahawks playoff games. This includes game-day events at nearby stations, featuring booths with local businesses, information on transit, and entertainment, ensuring a festive atmosphere for fans.

Additionally, new wayfinding and temporary signage will be implemented to help navigate crowded areas leading to the stadium. Directional signs will display walking distances, guiding attendees to various landmarks and facilitating smooth transit.

Special weekday Sounder trains will also run to support increased capacity during this period. Adjustments have been made to schedules for the N Line and S Line to accommodate the influx of soccer fans.

Looking ahead to the FIFA World Cup in 2026, Sound Transit plans to refine strategies based on feedback from this summer’s operations. That tournament will feature 48 national teams and is expected to attract around 750,000 visitors to Seattle.

Sound Transit has collaborated closely with the Seattle Local Organizing Committee to ensure efficient visitor services during these events. Staff have learned from past international events, such as the Paris Olympics and the Qatar World Cup, to enhance their planning strategies.

As preparations continue, Sound Transit is committed to delivering high-quality service, with an emphasis on cleanliness, safety, and reliability throughout the tournament. Regular updates will be provided to the public as the event dates approach.