URGENT UPDATE: The Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) is set to kick off the highly anticipated 2026 MLS season by hosting soccer superstar Lionel Messi and Inter Miami CF on February 21, 2026. This thrilling match will take place at the historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, which boasts a capacity of 77,500 fans.
With the current MLS season nearing its conclusion, the announcement of LAFC’s upcoming schedule is generating excitement. The league revealed a 34-game regular season that places LAFC prominently in the spotlight right from the start. The opening day clash against Messi’s team promises to be a highlight, drawing massive attention from soccer fans nationwide.
LAFC will play six of their first nine home games in Los Angeles, a strategy designed to build momentum early in the season. Notably, there will be a break in the schedule from May 25 to July 16 to accommodate the FIFA World Cup, hosted across Mexico, the U.S., and Canada. During this break, LAFC will have played 15 games, a crucial stretch for establishing their position in the league.
The highly anticipated first “El Tráfico” match against rival L.A. Galaxy is scheduled for July 17 at Dignity Health Sports Park. This matchup will be broadcast nationally on FOX, alongside four other matches airing on FOX or FS1. Fans can expect to see LAFC on Apple TV for every game, ensuring widespread access to their season.
LAFC’s season will conclude with several key matchups, including a home finale on Halloween against Minnesota United. The decisive Decision Day will take place on November 7 at Lumen Field in Seattle, where playoff positions will be at stake.
Following the opening match against Inter Miami, LAFC will transition to its permanent home at BMO Stadium, located just across from the Coliseum. This venue will host the remaining 16 home games of the season, further establishing LAFC’s presence in the heart of Los Angeles.
Tickets for the season opener and all regular-season home games will go on sale to the public at 10 a.m. on December 8. Alongside Inter Miami, LAFC will also welcome Eastern Conference rivals Orlando and New York City to Exposition Park throughout the season.
For the third consecutive year, LAFC will face the San Jose Earthquakes at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on September 19. The 2026 All-Star Game is scheduled for July 29 in Charlotte, North Carolina, providing another exciting highlight in the upcoming season.
The MLS playoffs will commence following the November FIFA window, with the complete postseason schedule, including the MLS Cup final, to be announced later. The anticipation surrounding LAFC’s new season is palpable, and fans are eager to witness the electrifying matches ahead.
Stay tuned for further updates as the season approaches and the excitement builds!
