Los Angeles is using its role as a World Cup host city to test heat response and transport strategies ahead of the 2028 Olympics. The city aims to create lasting benefits from the events while facing ongoing challenges from wildfires and budget pressures.
The U.S. men’s football team is set to play its first World Cup match at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood. With preparations underway 30 days before kick-off, operations teams are focusing on field conditions and infrastructure stress tests for security, mobility, and heat waves.
City officials see the eight World Cup matches as a rehearsal for the larger Summer Olympics. Paul Krekorian, who heads the mayor’s Office of Major Events, stated the goal is to deliver a lasting legacy for residents.
Heat poses risks mainly to spectators and staff rather than athletes. SoFi Stadium has cooling systems and roof panels for ventilation, while L.A. Metro has added new subway stops and contactless payments to encourage transit use. Officials estimate daily ridership on the D Line will reach 78,000.
The city published a Climate Action Plan in April committing to net zero by 2045. Challenges remain, including low tree cover in Inglewood and recovery from the January 2025 wildfires.
