Metro Unveils Transit Plans Ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup in Los Angeles

Improved Public Transit to Welcome the World

With Los Angeles set to host key matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Metro has begun to outline ambitious transit plans aimed at easing congestion and providing convenient transportation options for worldwide visitors and residents alike. The global soccer tournament, expected to draw hundreds of thousands of fans, presents a unique opportunity for LA to showcase its evolving transportation network.

Key Transit Enhancements in the Pipeline

Metro officials are working on a range of service upgrades and infrastructure improvements scheduled to be completed before June 2026. These enhancements are focused on increasing capacity, improving frequency, and ensuring reliable operations across the city’s sprawling metro rail and bus systems.

Planned Improvements Include:

• Increased Frequency: Metro will boost rail service frequencies on key lines serving stadium venues, including the B (Red) and E (Expo) lines.
• Targeted Bus Service: New express and shuttle routes will link major fan destinations, hotels, and stadium sites.
• Extended Service Hours: Metro plans to run trains later into the night during game days to accommodate post-match crowds.
• Wayfinding Upgrades: Multilingual signage and digital real-time tracking will be implemented system-wide for visitor convenience.

Key Venues to Benefit from Transit Expansion

Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium in Inglewood is among the primary World Cup venues. While not currently served by rail transit, officials are exploring creative solutions to bridge the first-mile/last-mile gap, including:

• Dedicated shuttles from Metro K Line’s Downtown Inglewood Station
• Potential use of bus-only lanes on game days
• Enhanced pedestrian infrastructure around event locations

Metro’s Equity and Sustainability Focus

Metro’s World Cup planning incorporates broader city goals of equitable access and sustainable mobility. Transit upgrades are being designed to leave a lasting legacy for LA’s communities, especially those historically underserved by public transportation.

By focusing on clean electric buses, zero-emission service options, and fare affordability programs like GoPass for youth and low-income riders, Metro aims to ensure that the transit investments benefit both the tournament and the city’s future.

Preparing for the Global Stage

With multiple matches scheduled in the Los Angeles region, Metro’s systems will play a crucial role in connecting a global audience to the heart of the city. Strategic transit expansions not only support crowds during the World Cup but also advance LA’s long-term vision of a more connected, less car-dependent metropolis.

Stay tuned as Metro releases more specific project timelines and passenger resources in the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.