Lumen Field to Undergo Major Renovations Ahead of 2026 World Cup

Seattle’s Lumen Field is set for a significant upgrade as it prepares to host six matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Axios reported. The stadium will undergo changes required by FIFA, including a new grass pitch, seating improvements, and enhanced media and security infrastructure.

Zach Hensley, vice president of stadium operations, said replacing the artificial turf with natural grass is among the most substantial modifications. That will require a new irrigation system, ventilation, grow lights, and maintenance tools. Additionally, seating in the Hawks Nest will be upgraded to include backs, and select areas will be restructured to accommodate media.

The Washington State Legislature approved $19.4 million in funding for the upgrades, signed into law by Governor Bob Ferguson. Other public investments will go toward security enhancements, local transit upgrades, and facility improvements at Gonzaga University and the University of Washington.

During the World Cup, the venue will be temporarily renamed Seattle Stadium to comply with FIFA’s ban on non-sponsor corporate naming. All “Lumen Field” branding and related signage will be removed or covered — a “very large task,” Hensley noted.

Work is scheduled to begin after the Seahawks wrap their 2025 season, with most improvements expected to be completed by May 2026. The artificial turf will be reinstalled after the tournament concludes.