Seattle 2026 World Cup profile spotlights Sounders culture and diverse football roots

Seattle is being presented as one of the key host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the United States city using the tournament to showcase its football culture, natural setting and diverse communities.

The city, the largest in Washington state and the Pacific Northwest, sits between water and mountains and is known internationally for coffee, music and sport. Its football story is closely tied to Seattle Sounders FC, whose Major League Soccer era began in 2009. Former Sounders players Steve Zakuani and Brad Evans described the club's support as central to the city's identity, pointing to the Emerald City Supporters' regular march to matches and the energy inside the stadium.

Evans said his first match in Seattle, played before about 35,000 supporters, showed that the club was building something significant. The Sounders have since become one of MLS's leading teams, winning several trophies, including US Open Cups and Champions League honours. The club also has links to baseball great Ken Griffey Jr, who is part of the organisation.

Seattle's World Cup role is also being connected to community work. Puyallup tribal elder Connie McCloud said her people remain deeply tied to land and water, and noted a partnership with the Sounders that has supported youth football, ceremonies and cultural recognition. Sounders kits using weaving designs and colours representing water and earth have also helped raise funds for water-related programmes.

Grassroots football featured strongly in the city's profile. Zakuani visited a mini-pitch built by the Sounders' charitable arm, while Isa Aiman of the African Sports Federation and Seattle African Premier League said football has helped provide safer spaces and opportunities for young people, including African, refugee and immigrant children.

Actor and Sounders minority owner Drew Carey described Seattle as a lively downtown city with strong food, music and outdoor culture. Former goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann also highlighted the region's scenery from the air, including the water, mountains and nearby national parks.

With the US men's national team having a strong record in Seattle, local figures said the city is ready to bring its football passion to a global audience in 2026.