LA's SoFi Stadium 'makes last-ditch attempt to host 2026 World Cup final'

Los Angeles' SoFi Stadium has made a last-ditch attempt to host the 2026 World Cup final, according to a report.

The stadium, which is home to the NFL's LA Rams and LA Chargers, was thought to be the one of the final three contenders for the honor of hosting the 2026 World Cup final, however, it was reported that it had been tossed aside by FIFA altogether due to regulation issues.

But the venue is now open to making the necessary changes to keep itself in consideration, according to The Times.

It was reported that FIFA's issue with the stadium was that its field is not wide enough to accommodate a soccer pitch for an official tournament game.

SoFi - the most expensive stadium in the world - would have to remove sections of the stands closer to the field to ensure the field was wide enough, which would consequently see the 70,000-seat venue's capacity drop. FIFA normally expects a stadium of 80,000 seats for a final.

Owner Stan Kroenke, who also owns Premier League team Arsenal and the Denver Nuggets, had reportedly opted against making the costly renovation. A move which was thought to have knocked SoFi not only out of the running to host the final but also a single game.

However, Kroenke is now reported to be scrambling to make a late bid to be considered a World Cup host, according to The Times, with FIFA set to announce venues for the 2026 tournament on February 4.

The LA stadium has approached FIFA with proposals for changes that would increase its capacity.

Meanwhile, FIFA is also said to be willing to compromise, taking a 'pragmatic solution' to adjust its requirements around space.

The Times adds that New York has emerged as the slight favorite to host the final, despite contrary reports claiming Texas is the