With Seattle’s first FIFA World Cup match just days away, the Seattle Police Department is urging fans attending games at Seattle Stadium to plan their transportation carefully, follow venue rules, and make responsible choices around alcohol before, during, and after matches.
Lumen Field, temporarily renamed Seattle Stadium for the tournament, will host six matches between 15 June and 6 July. Road closures around the stadium and Pioneer Square are expected to begin approximately four hours before each kickoff, making driving to the venue a significant challenge on match days.
SPD’s Patrick Michaud is strongly recommending fans take the Link Light Rail to Stadium or International District stations rather than attempting to drive. Park-and-ride options are available throughout the system, and schedules can be found at soundtransit.org. For those who choose to drive, Michaud recommends arriving early and using designated parking areas rather than attempting to find street parking close to the venue.
Bag Policy
Fans entering Seattle Stadium must comply with the venue’s bag policy. Permitted bags must be clear and no larger than 12 by 6 by 12 inches, or a small non-clear clutch bag no larger than 4.5 by 6.5 inches. Prohibited items include weapons, outside food and beverages, selfie sticks, drones, and professional camera equipment. A full list of prohibited items is available at lumenfield.com.
Impaired Driving
SPD is placing particular emphasis on the dangers of drunk driving during the tournament. Michaud was direct in his warning. “Drunk driving kills people. Real people. Neighbors. Parents. Kids. The same fans you’re cheering next to,” he said. He urged fans to designate a sober driver before drinking, arrange a rideshare or taxi before leaving home, or commit to using light rail as their plan for getting home. SPD and the Washington State Patrol will have dedicated DUI patrols operating on all major routes on every match day throughout the tournament.
Emergencies at the Stadium
For emergencies during matches, SPD said fans can text 911, which can be especially useful in the loud stadium environment. Anyone texting should include their location in the message. Officers will be stationed throughout the venue and surrounding area. Those in immediate danger should call 911 directly. Callers who do not speak English should state which language they speak so a translator can be connected.
