The Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, is one of the most iconic stadiums in world football history. It hosted the 1994 WC Final between Brazil and Italy, one of the most watched sporting events ever. However, for WC 2026, all Los Angeles area matches will be played at Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, not at the Rose Bowl.
Is the Rose Bowl hosting WC 2026 matches?
No. The Rose Bowl is not a WC 2026 venue. All Los Angeles area matches are played exclusively at Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood. Los Angeles Stadium will host 8 matches, including a quarter-final.
For the full city experience, see our WC 2026 in Los Angeles: Fan Guide to Los Angeles Stadium.
The Rose Bowl's the tournament legacy
The Rose Bowl's place in the tournament history is secure. On July 17, 1994, it hosted the WC Final between Brazil and Italy in front of 94,194 fans. After a 0-0 draw through 120 minutes, Brazil won the penalty shootout 3-2, with Roberto Baggio's famous miss sealing Italy's fate. It remains one of the most iconic moments in football history.
The Rose Bowl also hosted the 1999 Women's WC Final, where the United States beat China on penalties in front of over 90,000 fans. Brandi Chastain's celebration after the winning penalty became one of the most iconic images in sports.
The Rose Bowl has hosted two WC Finals, making it one of the most important football venues in American history, even though it will not host matches in 2026.
Rose Bowl vs. Los Angeles Stadium: what changed?
| Rose Bowl | SoFi Stadium | |
|---|---|---|
| Year built | 1922 | |
| Capacity | 88,565 | |
| Location | Pasadena (15 miles from downtown LA) | Inglewood (4 miles from LAX) |
| Roof | Open | |
| Cost | $272,000 (1922) | $5.5 billion |
| Transit access | Limited (car-dependent) | Metro K Line + shuttle |
| the tournament history | 1994 Final, 1999 WWC Final | 2026 (8 matches, incl. QF) |
Los Angeles Stadium's modern infrastructure, superior transit connections, and commercial capabilities made it the preferred choice for 2026. The Rose Bowl's limited public transport access and ageing facilities were key factors in the decision.
Visiting the Rose Bowl while in LA for WC 2026
Even though the Rose Bowl is not hosting the tournament matches, it is still an iconic venue worth visiting if you are in Los Angeles. The stadium is located in Pasadena, approximately 15 miles northeast of Los Angeles Stadium.
- Rose Bowl Flea Market: Held on the second Sunday of each month, it is one of the largest flea markets in the US. If your the tournament trip overlaps, it is a great experience.
- Stadium tours: The Rose Bowl offers tours of the historic venue, including the field where Baggio missed that penalty.
- Brookside Park: The area around the Rose Bowl is a pleasant park for walking, with views of the San Gabriel Mountains.
For everything about the actual the tournament matches in LA, see our Los Angeles Fan Guide and Los Angeles Stadium: WC 2026 Matches & Info.
Bet on WC 2026 matches in Los Angeles
While the Rose Bowl is not hosting matches, Los Angeles Stadium will host 8 fixtures including a quarter-final. Follow every match with live odds via the live centre.
Use BetBuilder to combine selections. New to Napoleon Sports? Create your account for full access to WC 2026 markets. With 1UP early payout, your bet is settled early if your team takes a 2-goal lead.
Public transport: Metro A Line naar Memorial Park, waar doorgaans de gratis Parsons shuttle bussen fans naar het historische stadion brengen.
Nearest airport: Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), about 21 km from the stadium.
Fan zone: Grand Park (Los Angeles).
FAQ: Rose Bowl and WC 2026
Will the Rose Bowl host WC 2026 matches?
No. All Los Angeles area WC 2026 matches take place at Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood.
Why was Los Angeles Stadium chosen over the Rose Bowl?
Los Angeles Stadium offers modern infrastructure, better public transport access (Metro K Line), superior commercial facilities, and was built in 2020 at a cost of $5.5 billion. The Rose Bowl, while historic, has limited transit access and ageing facilities.
Did the Rose Bowl host the 1994 WC Final?
Yes. The Rose Bowl hosted the 1994 WC Final between Brazil and Italy (0-0, Brazil won 3-2 on penalties) in front of 94,194 fans. It also hosted the 1999 Women's WC Final.
Can I visit the Rose Bowl during WC 2026?
Yes. The Rose Bowl is in Pasadena, about 15 miles from Los Angeles Stadium. Tours are available, and the Rose Bowl Flea Market runs on the second Sunday of each month.
Where are WC 2026 matches in Los Angeles?
All 8 matches (including a quarter-final) take place at Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood. See our LA Fan Guide for full details.
Rose Bowl history: Rose Bowl stadium history (Wikipedia).
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