Friday, May 15, 2026
    More
    Stadiums & Real Estate

    FIFA Officials: SoFi Stadium’s Dimensions Are “Too Narrow” for World Cup

    • FIFA officials stated that SoFi Stadium does not meet the requirements necessary to stage a soccer game.
    • Stan Kroenke and the Rams are reportedly “exploring options” to widen the surface.
    By
    Apr 04, 2022 | 03:24 pm
    UPDATED Apr 04, 2022 | 03:35 pm
    Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

    Since opening in September 2021, SoFi Stadium has been the site of everything from youth football championships to the most recent Super Bowl.

    Now, owner Stan Kroenke faces another challenge: trying to make his $5 billion stadium a model of versatility for live events.

    With USA, Mexico, and Canada set to co-host the 2026 World Cup, FIFA officials stated that SoFi does not meet the requirements necessary to stage a soccer game because the dimensions of its pitch are too narrow.

    Kroenke and the Rams are reportedly “exploring options” to widen the surface as part of their bid but haven’t yet convinced FIFA officials. 

    Given SoFi’s dimensions, they would need to extend the width of the field by at least 63 feet. Thus, if Kroenke plans on hosting the World Cup as planned, he’ll need to dish out even more cash to redevelop the 70,000-seat stadium.

    This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

    Sign up for
    The Memo Newsletter

    Get the biggest stories and best analysis on the business of sports delivered to your inbox twice every weekday and twice on weekends.

    This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
    Linkedin
    Whatsapp
    Copy Link
    Link Copied
    Link Copied

    What to Read
    by

    Philly, Boston Warn World Cup Fans: Don’t Come Without Ticket
    Tailgating is allowed for fans with tickets only.
    by

    BTS, Madonna, Shakira Headline First-Ever World Cup Halftime Show
    The lineup could extend the final’s halftime.
    by

    New York, New Jersey Lower Costs for World Cup Transit
    Round-trip trains will now cost $98, and buses $20.
    by

    White House Says No Issue With Iraqi Soccer Visas at World Cup
    Reports had indicated some players were denied visas.

    Featured Today
    by

    NFL Rivalries Are Made on the Field, Mocked in Schedule Release Videos
    Every year, teams find new ways to one-up themselves (and their rivals).
    Bart Swings/Falyn Fonoimoana/Avery Poppinga
    May 14, 2026

    OnlyFans Is Paying Pro Athletes What Their Sports Won’t
    The adult-content platform is a reliable income source for niche athletes.
    May 13, 2026

    How Sports Graphic Designers Are Grappling With the Rise of AI Art
    The release of ChatGPT 2.0 Images sparked a conversation among sports designers.
    May 12, 2026

    Collectible Cups Are Sending Sports Fans Into a Frenzy
    The drink is secondary to the wild vessel it comes in.

    More in Stadiums & Real Estate
    Sponsored

    Fueling Dreams with Spectrum Business
    Behind every league, team, and major event are the communities and small businesses helping power the business of sports.
    April 22, 2026

    Royals’ New $3B Stadium Lands Downtown, but Not Where Expected
    The MLB club strikes a large-scale development deal with Hallmark Cards.
    Cleveland Browns players Denzel Ward and Carson Schwesinger, left, join with others as they take part in the ceremonial groundbreaking for the new Huntington Bank Field in Brook Park, Ohio on April 30, 2026.
    May 1, 2026

    Browns Break Ground on New Stadium, but Funding Still in Limbo
    State and local funding for the planned venue is not yet solidified.
    Sponsored

    What Is It Like to Run the Knicks?
    Dave Checketts on his time running the Knicks & Jazz, Jordan war stories, and his investment strategy across major sports leagues.
    April 21, 2026

    Illinois Lawmakers Race to Advance $5B Bears Stadium Plan
    State legislators race against the clock as a stadium decision nears.
    Apr 4, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Royals center fielder Lane Thomas (15) celebrates in the dugout after scoring during the seventh inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at Kauffman Stadium.
    April 17, 2026

    Kansas City Okays $600M for New Royals Stadium
    The MLB club must still complete the rest of its stadium financing plan.
    Apr 10, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. (7) throws to first base during the seventh inning against the Chicago White Sox at Kauffman Stadium.
    April 14, 2026

    Royals One Step Closer to New Kansas City Stadium
    The MLB club receives support from two key votes.
    April 6, 2026

    Chicago Mayor Pushes for Rejected Downtown Bears Stadium Site
    Despite the team’s focus on suburban options, city leaders continue their efforts.