Issue link: https://www.wacmagazine.com/i/1544632
SPRING / SUMMER 2026 9 first take fifa world cup first take FIFA World Cup must-knows What is it? e world's biggest international soccer tournament, held once every four years. Countries, regions, and continents vie heavily to host. Group-stage play is followed by knockout rounds. e winning nation earns four years of bragging rights. First played: 1930 Current champion: Argentina Most titles: Brazil (5). In 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994 & 2002 Most career goals by a player: Miroslav Klose (Germany), 16 Ronaldo (Brazil), 15 Also notable: Lionel Messi (Argenti- na), 13; Pelé (Brazil), 12 United States titles: Zero 2026 key dates: Tournament kickoff: June 11 Finals: July 19 Seattle games Group stages: June 15: Belgium vs. Egypt June 19: USA vs. Australia June 24: Qatar vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina June 26: Egypt vs. Iran* Round of 32 matchup: July 1 Round of 16 matchup: July 6 *Iran's tournament status remained in question as of press time. Seattle Sounders connections: As of press time, Sounders midfielder Cristian Roldan was the best bet to make the U.S. national team roster. From Uruguay to the Emerald City! e first World Cup took place in Uru- guay in 1930. Seattle was named one of the North American cities that would host 2026 games four years ago. With a committed soccer fanbase, international population, and a reputation as having the loudest stadium in the country, Se- attle was an early favorite to be chosen. Lumen Field … make that Seattle Stadium FIFA, the organizing body behind the World Cup, holds an enormous amount of political and economic sway. So much so that all stadiums hosting games must remove their branding. For six weeks, say hello to Seattle Stadium. We like the way that sounds! VIEWING PARTIES AT THE WAC Do matchday right! Wear your team's colors. Learn one team chant. Watch at the WAC! Celebrate (or mourn) with new friends. Private parties The WAC Catering team is ready for all your private viewing parties at the WAC, and this summer's FIFA World Cup is sure to be a hit! Parties can take place in any of our banquet spaces, including the 8th Floor Simulator and Crystal Ballroom, and can host 15–300 people. Pricing begins at $75 per person and includes: • Match broadcast on big-screen televisions • Appetizers and a round of hosted beverages • Soccer decor and photo opportunities Viewing parties are completely customizable. Enhancements include tray-passed appetizers, a photobooth, lounge furniture, and more. Scan the QR code, email catering@ wac.net, or call 206.464.3050 to inquire. Matches on lobby level The Noble Room or the lobby will air all World Cup matches. Special buffets are being planned for matches at Lumen Field and for Team USA and other key games. Details to be announced on the WAC app. U.S. host cities: • Seattle • Atlanta • Boston • Dallas • Houston • Kansas City • Los Angeles • Miami • New York • Philadelphia • San Francisco Note: All statistics and facts are for the men's tournament. e women's tournament will be played in Brazil in 2027. Enter our contest for WAC bragging rights! Visit wac.net/soccer-picks to submit your picks. Only one entry per member. Open to WAC members only. All entries due by 11 pm on Wednesday, June 10. TOURNAMENT PICK 'EM