SoFi Stadium Begins World Cup Pitch Construction in Los Angeles

SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California officially launched construction and modification of its playing surface to meet FIFA's international soccer specifications for the 2026 World Cup. The $5.5 billion venue — opened in 2020 as the NFL's most expensive stadium — must install a FIFA-standard natural grass pitch over its artificial turf configuration. SoFi Stadium hosts Iran's Group G opener vs New Zealand on June 15 and potentially additional knockout-stage matches. The pitch work is part of the broader FIFA venue inspection timeline with the tournament 54 days away.