City and Soccer Groups Launch Programs to Boost Youth Soccer in Los Angeles ● UPDATING

Los Angeles city officials and soccer organizations announced a series of programs on Saturday aimed at expanding youth soccer access across the city, just ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The announcement was made during a "Kick it in the Park" watch party in Echo Park, one of more than 100 public viewing events planned throughout Los Angeles during the tournament.

More than 100 local youth and family members received tickets to the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which took place on Saturday.

The event included participation from Mexican Consul General Carlos González Gutiérrez and featured the opening match between Mexico and South Africa. City officials also unveiled a partnership between Los Angeles and the U.S.

Soccer Federation’s Soccer Forward Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to youth soccer development. The initiative aims to expand affordable soccer programming at Los Angeles Recreation and Parks facilities, leveraging the fact that soccer is already the most-played sport in the city's recreation system.

In addition, Soccer Forward announced a partnership with the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) through its Soccer at Schools initiative, presented in partnership with Bank of America. These efforts are designed to increase access to youth soccer through schools, parks, and community programs, building momentum ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Los Angeles is set to host several matches during the tournament.