Charlotte to host USMNT in FIFA World Cup tuneup

TEPPER SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

Fans at the 2023 Concacaf Gold Gup match between the U.S. and Trinidad and Tobago at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. The U.S. will play an exhibition May 31, 2026 in Charlotte ahead of the FIFA World Cup.

The United States men soccer team is coming back to Charlotte. 

The U.S. Soccer Federation Tuesday announced the national squad will play May 31 at Bank of America Stadium in a friendly match ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The opponent will be named after the World Cup draw.

The game is the second time the USMNT has played in Charlotte, with the first appearance a 6-0 win against Trinidad and Tobago in 2023 at the Concacaf Gold Cup. The match is one of two showcase exhibitions scheduled for Charlotte next year, with the other MLS’s All-Star game.

The World Cup draw is Dec. 5 in Washington, D.C., at 12 p.m. 

“We are thrilled to welcome the U.S. Men’s National Team to Charlotte for one of their World Cup send-off matches at Bank of America Stadium,” Charlotte Sports Foundation CEO Will Pitts said in a statement. “Our city has a deep passion for soccer, and we look forward to showcasing the hospitality, energy, and incredible experiences that make Charlotte such a memorable destination for fans from across the country.”  

Charlotte isn’t finished positioning itself for international soccer. The city is included in the 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup bid book from the U.S. Soccer Federation, Mexican Football Association, Costa Rican Football Association, and Jamaica Football Federation.  

North Carolina has hosted multiple U.S. national team matches over the years. The women beat South Korea in Charlotte after their 2019 World Cup win in Charlotte, which set a record for the largest USWNT crowd in North Carolina.  The men have played eight times in the state with three matches in High Point and Cary hosting a pair since the MLS launched in 1996.

Charlotte FC defender Tim Ream has earned 79 caps for the USMNT since 2011, having served as captain on 25 occasions.  

Ticket presales begin Dec. 3, with general tickets on sale starting Dec. 5. 

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