SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, renowned as the most expensive stadium in the world, is currently facing the possibility of not hosting any games during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
A current dispute between FIFA, the governing body of football, and businessman Stan Kroenke, owner of the stadium and the Los Angeles Rams, is the culprit.
Kroenke Sports Entertainment (KSE) is reportedly unhappy with the terms of the agreement to host matches during the tournament, particularly concerning the revenue-sharing arrangement among FIFA, the cities, and the stadiums.
Home to the Rams and Chargers, the SoFi Stadium is one of the two newest stadiums in the NFL, opening in 2020.
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Stan Kroenke doesn't want to make changes at the SoFi Stadium
In addition to the issues with the profit distribution setup, the 76-year-old businessman reportedly refuses to modify the playing area to accommodate football, which uses wider field dimensions compared to NFL games.
Kroenke, who also owns Premier League side Arsenal and reigning NBA Champions Denver Nuggets, has declined to cover the expenses for the necessary modifications, which would involve the removal of stands and luxury boxes.
Previously considered a potential venue for hosting the World Cup final, the Inglewood venue's chances of hosting any games now seem uncertain.
MetLife Stadium in New York and AT&T Stadium in Dallas are also listed as possible locations for the final.
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