What’s the construction at Sporting KC’s stadium? See the World Cup project
Fans driving by Sporting Park noticed construction happening inside the stadium, and it’s set to be complete in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
A reader submitted these images of the home of Sporting KC, recently renamed from Children’s Mercy Park, and wondered what was happening.
At the Kansas City, Kansas, facility, a 90,000-square-foot outdoor plaza is being built to host concerts, gameday fun and other community events. Rob Thomson, Sporting KC’s spokesperson, said in 2025 the construction is in partnership with architecture firm Populous and Turner Construction.
The plaza will feature a stage and video board, new entry gates, a “Champions Walk” sidewalk entry, and new lighting, Thomson said. Construction is expected to be completed in May, a month before the first game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium kicks off between Algeria and Argentina in the group stages.
While it’ll be done before the World Cup, fans attending MLS games at the stadium can expect to see some parts of the stadium blocked off during the team’s seven home games between February and May.
It’s one of many spots prepared to host watch parties and other related events as the city prepares to host six World Cup matches at Arrowhead Stadium during the tournament.
Sporting KC’s practice facility, Compass Minerals National Performance Center, is one of three local base camp options for the upcoming World Cup. It’s reported that Argentina will prepare for a World Cup repeat at the facility.
The Netherlands’ camp is expected to be at the Kansas City Current’s facility, and England is planning to make its camp at Swope Park. Algeria is expected to train at Rock Chalk Park in Lawrence, according to reports.
The Star’s Sofi Zeman contributed to this report.
