The U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) has officially begun its World Cup journey in Irvine, California, where Great Park will serve as the team’s home base during the opening phase of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The setting is both symbolic and strategic, marking the start of preparations for the biggest tournament in American soccer history.
Key Highlights
- USMNT begins 2026 World Cup preparations in Irvine, California, using Great Park as its official group-stage base camp.
- Massive local turnout marks team’s arrival, with 5,500 fans attending training and 33,000 more unable to secure access.
- Great Park carries deep historical significance, formerly Marine Corps Air Station El Toro, which served U.S. military operations for over 50 years.
- Six-year planning effort led to selection as base camp, with USMNT set to commute to matches in Los Angeles and Seattle during the group stage.
USMNT Base in Irvine Sets Stage for Historic 2026 World Cup Campaign
On Monday, around 5,500 local fans attended the team’s first public session at Great Park, while a further 33,000 requests went unmet due to limited capacity. The moment signaled not only the beginning of the USMNT’s campaign but also the culmination of a six-year planning process to bring the team to Orange County.
From Military Airbase to World Cup Hub
Great Park, home to the Championship Soccer Stadium, carries deep historical significance. Before becoming a sporting venue, the site operated for 56 years as Marine Corps Air Station El Toro, where generations of U.S. military personnel passed through before deployment across conflicts including World War II, the Korean War, and Vietnam.
“I think there’s a lot of storied history here,” said Irvine mayor Larry Agran, who highlighted the site’s legacy and its transformation into a modern community space. He noted that the land once served as a departure point for servicemen and women leaving U.S. soil for combat, adding meaning to its current role as a national team base.
Six-Year Process to Bring USMNT to Orange County
The decision to host the USMNT in Irvine was the result of a long and coordinated effort between the city and stakeholders, including local club Orange County SC. The proposal underwent multiple FIFA inspections over several years before being approved as a World Cup base camp location.
The USMNT will remain in Orange County throughout the group stage, commuting to SoFi Stadium for matches against Paraguay and Turkey, with a trip to Seattle scheduled for their second group game. While Irvine does not host official tournament matches, its role as a training hub places it at the center of the team’s World Cup preparation.
A Training Base Built on Atmosphere and Advantage
Beyond logistics, Great Park offers a unique environment that blends scenery, climate, and community engagement. Local stakeholders have emphasized the natural advantages of the region, including its consistent weather and scenic backdrop.
“There are mountains in the background… and the way the sun sets over them, it’s one of the most beautiful stadiums I’ve ever seen,” said Orange County SC representative Rutstein, highlighting both the visual appeal and year-round playing conditions.
As the USMNT settles into its base camp, Irvine’s transformation from military airfield to World Cup training ground reflects a broader shift — one where history, sport, and community converge on football’s biggest stage.
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