Los Angeles residents and visitors planning to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches at SoFi Stadium will have a novel transportation option: direct bus service from nine locations across the region. The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) announced the initiative on Wednesday, aiming to provide affordable and convenient access to the highly anticipated games.
The move comes as preparations intensify for the World Cup, which will see eight matches played at the Inglewood stadium throughout June and July of 2026. With parking expected to be limited, Metro’s enhanced service seeks to alleviate congestion and offer a sustainable transportation solution for fans. The service will operate with a fare of just $1.75 each way – equivalent to the standard cost of a Metro bus ride – making it an accessible option for a wide range of attendees.
Expanded Transit Network for World Cup Attendees
The direct bus routes will connect SoFi Stadium to key transit hubs and park-and-ride locations throughout Los Angeles County. Fans will be able to access the service from the following stations and locations: Hawthorne/Lennox Station, Crenshaw Station, LAX/Metro Transit Center, El Camino College in Torrance, Harbor Gateway Transit Center in Gardena, Downtown Long Beach, Union Station, North Hollywood Station, and Pierce College Station. The LAX/Metro Transit Center location will not offer parking options.
Metro releases its map for enhanced service during the 2026 World Cup in Los Angeles.
For those choosing to drive to the transit locations, parking will be available at most sites, with reservations recommended. According to the Metro source, parking costs will range from approximately $60 to $120, depending on the location, with early bird rates available at some stations. Reservations can be made through SpotHero to secure these discounted rates. Metro’s website provides further details on parking options and reservation links.
Service Schedule and Accessibility
The bus service will begin operating four hours before the scheduled kickoff time for each match and will continue for 90 minutes after the final whistle. This extended service window aims to accommodate the influx of fans both before and after the games. Metro is collaborating with over 10 regional transit providers and charter bus companies to ensure a seamless and efficient service. All locations are accessible via existing Metro bus and rail lines, offering a comprehensive public transportation network for World Cup attendees.
The first match scheduled at SoFi Stadium will be between the United States and Paraguay on June 12, 2026, with a 6:00 PM local time kickoff. Los Angeles will host a total of eight matches, including a quarterfinal game on July 10, 2026. Beyond the matches themselves, the city is preparing to host numerous World Cup celebrations and viewing events, further enhancing the overall fan experience.
The initiative represents a significant investment in public transportation infrastructure to support the World Cup and provide a sustainable transportation option for fans. Metro’s commitment to affordability and accessibility underscores its dedication to ensuring that everyone can participate in the excitement of the tournament. The agency is encouraging fans to plan their trips in advance and utilize the Metro Trip Planner tool on its website for detailed route information and schedules.
Fans can find detailed travel information, including shuttle routes and parking details, on the official Metro World Cup website: https://www.metro.net/worldcup/. This resource will be continuously updated as the tournament approaches, providing fans with the latest information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable World Cup experience.
As Los Angeles prepares to welcome the world for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Metro’s expanded bus service stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to providing accessible and sustainable transportation options for all. Further updates regarding the service, including specific route details and schedules for each match, will be released in the coming months. Fans are encouraged to stay informed by visiting the Metro website and following the agency’s social media channels.
Worth a look