Seattle is gearing up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ramping up public transportation plans and creating car-free zones to manage crowds.
SEATTLE — With more than a month until the first FIFA World Cup in 2026, local leaders are rolling out plans to bring large crowds through downtown Seattle.
In preparations, leaders urge people to plan ahead and use public transport Game day.
SuperKim Thai Kitchen is located near Lumen Field, temporarily renamed Seattle Stadium by FIFA and where six World Cup games will be played. Owner Kim Pathumratanathan hopes it will attract more customers and looks forward to serving fans from all over the world.
“I think it’s going to be a great time,” he said.
Seattle will drastically change the dynamics in Pioneer Square on game day. one No vehicles A pedestrian zone was announced on match day. There will be no public parking in the north lot of the stadium or in the event center parking lot. Seattle Department of Transportation releases map outlining restricted areas.
For Pathumratanathan, that means stocking up on food the day before a race and unloading food deliveries before the streets are closed to general traffic.
FIFA World Cup matches will be held on the following days:
- June 15, 2026 — Noon PT: Belgium vs. Egypt (Group G)
- June 19, 2026 — Noon PT: United States vs. Australia (Group D)
- June 24, 2026 — Noon PT: Qatar vs. Italy/Northern Ireland/Wales/Bosnia and Herzegovina* (Group B)
- June 26, 2026 — 8:00 PM PT: Egypt vs. Iran (Group G)
- July 1, 2026 — 1 p.m. PT: Round of 32
- July 6, 2026 — 5 p.m. PT: Round of 16
To improve transportation options on game days, King County Metro will provide more service on busy routes, backup buses to help alleviate congestion, more water taxi trips and increased Metro Flex on-demand service.
Metro will also operate dedicated shuttles. this Beach shuttle It will run from May 21 to September 7, connecting passengers to the waterfront, Pioneer Square, the stadium and the International District. this Game day shuttle It will run around downtown, connecting riders between the stadium and Seattle Center on game days. The shuttle will be free.
“This summer, whether you’re a resident or a football fan coming to watch the big game, it will be easier than ever to travel to popular destinations in downtown Seattle by public transportation thanks to our new shuttles and bus service enhancements,” said Michelle Allison, King County Metro general manager. “We’re ready to take on the world and count down the days, and our drivers are looking forward to welcoming everyone on board.”
Sound Transit’s Sounder trains will run on all game days, offering scheduled and special service. Sound Transit Express buses will be ready to provide additional capacity if needed.
In addition, Link light rail will run lines 1 and 2 more frequently and with extended hours until 1am on match days.
“Seattle Stadium is positioned to be the most accessible venue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” said Peter Tomozawa, CEO of SeattleFWC26. “Whether you’re a local, or a visitor from around the world, attending the game is one of the best parts of the experience – no car required. Our regional partners have worked incredibly hard on this initiative, and getting around our city has never been easier.”
For more information about Seattle FIFA World Cup match day transportation options, please visit the agency website:
The travel planning page can be found here.
Additionally, FIFA fans are encouraged to join the official fan messaging WhatsApp channel Live updates from Seattle.
