On Wednesday night, Seattle will host the thrilling conclusion of the FIFA Club World Cup as FC Internazionale Milano takes on CA River Plate from Argentina. This match has not only captivated local fans but has also put the city on the global football map, showcasing its ability to host major international events.
SEATTLE — The excitement is palpable as Seattle gears up for the final FIFA Club World Cup match. Local officials are already looking ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, an event expected to double the number of visitors to the city, creating an even larger influx of football fans.
Transportation officials have confirmed that the Club World Cup has served as a vital test run for the city’s infrastructure. The Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) alongside King County Metro have been closely monitoring traffic patterns and managing crowd movements around the stadiums in the SoDo (South of Downtown) area. This will provide vital data for the much larger scale of the upcoming World Cup next summer.
The influx of fans, however, has presented challenges for local businesses and workers. Employees from companies like Starbucks and Amtrak voiced their concerns about commuting difficulties during game days. Many have experienced increased traffic and crowd-related disruptions, impacting daily operations.
While some found commuting to be a hassle, fans appeared to take the congestion in stride. “Downtown, a little bit of a jam,” noted River Plate fan Marc Herzfeld, who had flown in from Buenos Aires. “The rest, very fluid,” he added, indicating that overall, the experience was manageable.
For many fans, attending such matches transcends the sport itself. Gaston and Tommy Levy, who made the journey from Miami, shared that their trip was about honoring family tradition. “My dad was from River Plate; he made me from River Plate,” Tommy explained, illustrating the deep emotional connection many fans have with their clubs.
Visitors like Herzfeld have praised Seattle’s hospitality. “It’s a very friendly city,” he said, expressing his desire to return. This kind of positive feedback bodes well for Seattle’s economy, especially as city officials estimate that the combined economic impact from the Club World Cup and next year’s World Cup could approach $1 billion.
From a transportation standpoint, the SDOT reports that the city has handled the influx competently. “We didn’t see major congestion or unusual delays in SoDo—traffic levels were typical for a game day,” stated Mariam Ali, deputy press secretary for SDOT. They are refining their strategies for 2026, focusing on pedestrian management and real-time traffic monitoring to enhance the experience for everyone.
Officials continue to encourage visitors to use public transportation whenever possible, underscoring the importance of easing traffic congestion and ensuring a smooth experience for fans and residents alike.
Wednesday’s match marks the last Club World Cup game hosted in Seattle this year, but the city’s role in international football is just beginning. With the World Cup set to take center stage in 2026, all eyes will be on Seattle as it prepares for a new wave of excitement.
