USMNT Reveals New 2026 World Cup Training Hub Following Strategic Pivot

U.S. Soccer revealed on Tuesday that the American men's national squad will establish their training headquarters in Irvine, California, during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Initial plans called for the team to be stationed at the University of California, according to The Athletic. However, the institution was unable to finalize terms with FIFA.

The team will now conduct training sessions at the expansive 24-field Great Park Sports Complex, located approximately one hour southeast of SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, where they are scheduled to play two group stage fixtures.

Placed in Group D, the United States will open against Paraguay on June 12 at the Inglewood venue, then travel north to Seattle Stadium for their June 19 encounter with Australia. They return to the Los Angeles area stadium for their concluding group match on June 25 versus the UEFA Playoff C victor.

What is Great Park Sports Complex?

What is Great Park Sports Complex?

Great Park Sports Complex boasts 24 playing surfaces, including six natural grass pitches, plus a soccer-specific stadium with approximately 5,000 seats that serves as home to Orange County SC of the USL Championship.

While the facility operates within a broader public recreational area, the USMNT's practice sessions will remain closed to spectators.

The squad will be accommodated at a nearby hotel within a 10-minute radius, featuring a dual-level fitness facility, outdoor swimming pool, and conference spaces for video analysis meetings.

The training facility offers strategic positioning just 15 minutes from John Wayne Airport for the team's journey to Seattle. Should the U.S. top Group D, they remain on the Pacific Coast for their round of 32 match in Santa Clara, California. A second-place finish would send them to Arlington, Texas, necessitating departure from LAX, located under an hour away.