Supporters gathered to mark the milestone moment, LA’s rich World Cup history, and the meaningful, lasting impact the 2026 tournament will bring to the region
LOS ANGELES (June 13, 2025) – Los Angeles celebrated one year to go until the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) kicks off their opening match at SoFi Stadium for FIFA World Cup 26™. The region is on track to welcome fans for an unforgettable World Cup experience for all eight matches which incorporates four additional Group Stage matches, including a second USMNT match, two Round of 32 knockout matches, and one Quarterfinal match.
As part of the One Year To Go celebration, the Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Host Committee and the Play Equity Fund announced the 26 Community Champions, a group of local nonprofit organizations that will receive grants to support their work using soccer to empower, uplift, and drive meaningful change throughout the Los Angeles region.
“I’m so proud to honor these different organizations for demonstrating the transformative power of soccer across our region,” said Larry Freedman, Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Host Committee Co-Chairman. “By uplifting voices in our communities, we create a legacy of impact that goes far beyond the game.”
The Host Committee recognized the 26 Community Champions last night at a special One Year to Go celebration on the historic Fox Studio lot, attended by celebrities, soccer stars, and hundreds of supporters.
The night began by honoring the LA region’s rich World Cup history, from the game-changing 1994 tournament to the enduring legacy being built for 2026, in a special “One Year To Glory” live taping of Men in Blazers, hosted by Roger Bennett. The show, which will be released as a podcast episode on Saturday, June 14, featured American soccer legends Cobi Jones and Brandi Chastain, Ted Lasso stars Jason Sudeikis and Brendan Hunt, and Los Angeles Chargers Coach Jim Harbaugh.
“Reaching the One Year To Go milestone is a powerful moment of reflection for our entire team and the region. It marks the countdown to hosting the world’s largest single-sport event in history and a celebration of everything Los Angeles stands for – diversity, passion, and community,” said Kathryn Schloessman, President & CEO of the Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission and Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Host City Manager. “We’re deeply grateful to our Host City Supporters and community leaders who have helped bring us to this moment and are making it possible to welcome fans for an unforgettable World Cup Experience in Los Angeles.”
Men in Blazers host Bennett noted how the 1994 Men’s World Cup and 1999 women’s tournament, both of which concluded with the final match in the Rose Bowl Stadium, put soccer on the sports map in the United States. With the tournament’s U.S. opening match next year, L.A. will be the city “from which all will radiate” in the 2026 World Cup. To rousing audience applause, he added a prediction: “L.A. is going to win the World Cup.”
Following the Men In Blazers Show, guests, including celebrities and members of the local soccer community, enjoyed a memorable evening of food, music, and entertainment, featuring a special performance by members of the Los Angeles Philharmonic and beats by DJ Mando Fresko. The One Year To Go celebration on the Fox Studio Lot was produced by Sequoia Productions.
“We’re thrilled to be celebrating One Year To Go, and what better way to start than on a studio lot with a live show,” said Chris Klein, Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Host Committee Co-Chairman. “Last night’s celebration was more than just a party, it was a moment to come together, appreciate our shared journey, and build excitement for what’s to come. As we mark One Year To Go, this gathering embodies the spirit that will drive us toward a successful and unforgettable event.”
Not only is the One Year To Go celebration a key milestone ahead of FIFA World Cup 26™, but it also marks the 30th Anniversary of the Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission. LASEC was created by Mayor Riordan in 1995 to help bring major events that create lasting legacy for our region.
Los Angeles is gearing up to welcome the world for eight FIFA World Cup 26™ matches at SoFi Stadium and 39 days of fan engagement across the Los Angeles region. For more information on FIFA World Cup 26™ Los Angeles and to learn more about the Host Committee’s community legacy initiatives, please visit losangelesfwc26.com. Additionally, for the first time, fans can now purchase the official Los Angeles Host City merchandise by visiting store.fifa.com and the Official FIFA World Cup 26™ Los Angeles poster here.