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How to watch the US Men’s soccer team practice in Irvine before the World Cup
The U.S. Men's National Team
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Alfredo Estrella
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AFP via Getty Images
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Will you ever get to see U.S. Men’s soccer captain Christian Pulisic on a soccer pitch at or near field level? Perhaps, for thousands of dollars on June 12 when Pulisic and the team take on Paraguay at SoFi in Inglewood for their first match in the World Cup.
But you can see Pulisic and his team in action four days before that match — at their practice facility down the freeway at the Great Park in Irvine. And it's free.
“This is going to be so epic," said Melissa Haley, Irvine’s engagement director.
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Free watch parties and soccer clinics in Long Beach. -
The Trump administration is suspending a requirement that foreign World Cup visitors pay as much as $15,000 in bonds to enter the U.S. -
It's 30 days until kick-off in Los Angeles. Organizers have built a regulation-size soccer field on top of the American football field.
The city worked for four years to be selected as the training facility for the U.S. Men’s team and made it a priority to hold a community day.
“I think it's… more than just hosting the team, it's about that connection, the historic connection because this is probably a once in a generation opportunity,” for Irvine to share the hosting of the team with area residents, Haley said.
The stadium at the Great Park in Irvine, where the U.S. Men's National Team will practice during the first stage of the 2026 World Cup.
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Screenshot, city of Irvine.
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Fans need to register online for a chance to get tickets, which will be picked by lottery. Each registration is limited to two tickets, and 7,000 tickets will be given out. Sign-ups are now open and end this coming Monday, May 25 at 10 a.m. Winners will be notified by email on May 29.
You can register for the lottery here.
After the practice, a “Pitchside Kickoff” festival will be held outside the stadium for the general public. No tickets are needed for that. The festival will include booths, exhibitions, music, food, raffles, and giveaways.
The World Cup begins June 11. Read more of LAist's coverage here.
US Men’s team practice at the Great Park in Irvine
- 9:45 a.m.: Doors open, welcome remarks from Irvine and FIFA officials, and USMNT.
- 10:15 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.: USMNT practices.
- 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.: “Pitchside Kickoff” festival outside the stadium hosted by the city of Irvine and USMNT. No ticket required.
Source: City of Irvine, check the city’s website for updates.
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