LA Metrolink Expands Service for 2026 World Cup
Metrolink to expand rail service for 2026 World Cup opener at SoFi Stadium
Metrolink Adds Service for 2026 World Cup Match
Metrolink plans to enhance regional rail service for the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening match between the USA and Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Greater Los Angeles. Transit officials announced the service expansion Thursday, though they haven't released specific details about which lines will see increased frequency or what hours the enhanced service will operate. The match is scheduled for June 12, 2026, and is expected to draw more than 70,000 fans to the Inglewood venue.
World Cup Drives Transit Planning
The service modifications are part of broader preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted across 16 cities in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Los Angeles will host eight World Cup matches at SoFi Stadium, making it one of the tournament's premier venues. Transit agencies typically begin planning major event service enhancements six to 12 months in advance, according to industry standards. Officials haven't disclosed the cost of the service expansion or how it'll be funded.
Details Remain Unclear
Metrolink operates eight lines across 538 route miles serving 62 stations in six Southern California counties. Officials didn't specify which lines will receive enhanced service or how many additional trains will run for the World Cup match. The agency also hasn't announced ticket pricing for the special event service or projected ridership numbers. Details about connections between Metrolink stations and SoFi Stadium weren't provided, though the venue is located within the agency's service area.
Implementation Timeline Uncertain
The World Cup opening match takes place June 12, 2026, but officials haven't said when they'll release detailed service schedules or begin selling tickets. Transit agencies typically notify riders several weeks before major service changes, though whether Metrolink will follow that timeline for this event remains unclear. The agency said it'll announce more information closer to the tournament.
Test Run for 2028 Olympics
The World Cup service enhancement could serve as a trial run for even larger transportation demands during the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Metrolink's average weekday ridership was 42,000 passengers before the pandemic, and major sporting events can significantly strain regional transit capacity. Riders can check Moovit for real-time Metrolink updates and service information as details about the World Cup enhancement become available.
