Full Breakdown
Sounders FC and Reign FC to Host Matches at ONE Spokane Stadium
1/15/2026, 6:24:32 AM
Historic Matches in Eastern Washington
For the first time in club history, Seattle Sounders FC will host a competitive home match outside of Western Washington, taking place at ONE Spokane Stadium on March 18, 2026. This match is part of the Round of 16 in the Concacaf Champions Cup, where the Sounders will face either Vancouver Whitecaps FC or Costa Rican side CS Cartaginés. The decision to host the match in Spokane arises from ongoing renovations at Lumen Field, which is preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Venue and Community Engagement
ONE Spokane Stadium, a modern facility located in downtown Spokane, is home to Spokane Velocity (USL League One) and Spokane Zephyr FC (USL Super League/W League). The stadium, which seats approximately 5,000 fans and can expand to 5,200 with standing room, features amenities such as suites and hospitality spaces. The venue is operated by the Spokane Public Facilities District and was funded by a Spokane Public Schools bond.
Sounders FC President of Business Operations Hugh Weber emphasized the club's commitment to making soccer accessible across Washington, stating, “Hosting this match in Spokane creates a special opportunity for fans in Eastern Washington to experience our club in a meaningful way.” Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown echoed this sentiment, highlighting the city's passion for soccer and the significance of hosting such high-level matches.
Broader Implications for Soccer in Washington
In addition to the Sounders' match, Seattle Reign FC will also play select home matches at ONE Spokane Stadium during the 2026 National Women’s Soccer League season. This initiative aims to strengthen the club's connection with fans statewide and introduce new audiences to women's soccer. Reign FC Chief Business Officer Maya Mendoza-Exstrom noted the importance of keeping matches in Washington while expanding the club's reach.
The RAVE Foundation, associated with Sounders FC, has also contributed to soccer development in Eastern Washington by building mini-pitches, enhancing community engagement and access to the sport.
Official Statements & Responses
Sounders FC General Manager Craig Waibel remarked on the significance of the match for Spokane, stating, “It’s incredibly meaningful to bring a match of this magnitude back to that community.” Katie Harnetiaux, President of Aequus Sports, expressed gratitude for the collaboration that made these events possible, reinforcing Spokane's role in the global soccer conversation.
What's Next
Ticket sales for the Sounders match will begin in late February, with season ticket members receiving exclusive pre-sale access. The Reign FC will also provide details regarding ticketing for their matches soon after the release of the NWSL schedule.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the Sounders have confirmed their match at ONE Spokane Stadium, the specific opponent will be determined after the preliminary match between Vancouver Whitecaps FC and CS Cartaginés. Further details regarding the Reign FC's schedule and ticketing logistics are pending.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Hosting this match in Spokane creates a special opportunity for fans in Eastern Washington to experience our club in a meaningful way, while also highlighting the outstanding partnership we share with the city, ONE Spokane Stadium and Aequus Sports.” — Hugh Weber, President of Business Operations, Sounders FC
- “Spokane is a true soccer city, and welcoming Concacaf competition and other visiting teams is a tremendous opportunity to celebrate our passionate fans and showcase the energy and enthusiasm for the sport across our community.” — Lisa Brown, Mayor of Spokane
- “We’ve seen how passionate Spokane fans are about the game, and we’re excited to bring our world-class roster and NWSL action across the state,” — Lesle Gallimore, General Manager, Seattle Reign FC