BREAKING: The Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) is set to kick off the 2026 Major League Soccer (MLS) season in a highly anticipated match against Lionel Messi and Inter Miami CF on February 21, 2026, at the iconic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. This thrilling opening day clash is expected to draw a massive crowd, as the stadium boasts a capacity of 77,500 fans.
The announcement comes as the current MLS season wraps up, with LAFC’s playoff fate hanging in the balance. Fans are buzzing with excitement as they prepare for the showdown against the soccer superstar, who has taken the league by storm since joining Miami.
LAFC’s schedule reveals that six of its first nine home games will take place in Los Angeles. The league will pause for the FIFA World Cup from May 25 to July 16, giving LAFC 15 games to make an impact before the break. Notably, the rivalry match against the L.A. Galaxy will not occur during this stretch, with the first of two “El Trafico” contests scheduled for July 17 at Dignity Health Sports Park, airing nationally on FOX.
Fans will have the opportunity to catch LAFC on major networks, with five of their matches broadcast on FOX or FS1, alongside full coverage on Apple TV. Key matchups include an away game at Austin on March 21 and a home clash against Seattle on May 24.
Following the opener against Miami, LAFC will transition to its permanent home at the BMO Stadium for the remaining 16 home games. The home finale is set for October 25 against the Galaxy, while the season wraps up on November 7 at Lumen Field in Seattle.
Tickets for the highly anticipated season opener and all regular-season home games will go on sale to the public at 10 a.m. PST on December 8. LAFC will also welcome Eastern Conference teams such as Orlando City and New York City FC to Exposition Park.
This season promises to be pivotal not just for LAFC, but for the entire league, as the 2026 All-Star Game is scheduled for July 29 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The postseason will unfold seamlessly following the November FIFA window, culminating in the MLS Cup playoffs, with specific dates to be announced later.
As the excitement builds for the upcoming season, fans are urged to stay tuned for updates and secure their tickets early. With star players like Messi gracing the pitch, the 2026 MLS season is shaping up to be an unforgettable experience.
