Kansas City Stadium is entering the final stages of its FIFA World Cup transformation, with renovations and rebranding work on schedule ahead of this summer’s tournament opener featuring defending champions Argentina on June 16.
Formerly known as GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, the venue has undergone major changes to meet FIFA requirements, including an expanded soccer pitch, reconfigured seating, and the removal or covering of hundreds of signs and sponsor advertisements. FIFA branding will replace local signage throughout the stadium during the tournament.
“We’re about five weeks away from the first match, and we’re really excited to turn the keys over to FIFA in the next week,” said Chiefs executive vice president of operations and events Matt Kenny.
Around 3,500 seats on the east side have been removed to accommodate the larger playing surface, while additional seating has been reserved for media. Capacity for World Cup matches will range between 65,000 and 68,000, down from more than 73,000 for Chiefs games.
The playing surface itself has also been rebuilt using Bermuda grass and redesigned to meet FIFA standards, including a perfectly level area around the goals.
Outside the stadium, construction is underway for FIFA hospitality areas, fan festival spaces, and a broadcast centre. Parking will be limited during the tournament, with organisers encouraging fans to use the “Stadium Direct” bus service operating from four locations across the metro area.
While much of the stadium branding will temporarily disappear, the Chiefs Hall of Honor will remain open throughout the event, offering visiting fans a glimpse into the franchise’s history.
Following the tournament’s final Kansas City match, a quarter-final on July 11, work will begin immediately to convert the venue back for NFL use ahead of the Chiefs’ preseason schedule in August.
