Here’s what the Royals have planned when England’s World Cup team visits Thursday
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- England will be at Kauffman Stadium for the Royals-Cardinals game.
- The Royals said England’s squad will meet Kansas City players and take part in pregame.
- Pregame could include an on-field moment, though a ceremonial pitch is unlikely.
Fans who weren’t able to attend England’s community practice session Saturday will get a second chance to see the squad Thursday. But it’ll be in an unusual setting for the “Three Lions” World Cup team.
England, which is making its World Cup base camp in Kansas City, will be at Kauffman Stadium for Thursday evening’s Royals-Cardinals game.
The Royals said England’s squad will be meeting with the Kansas City players and taking part in pre-game festivities. That could include an on-field moment ... but throwing out a ceremonial first pitch would be a foreign feeling for the Brits, because only goalkeepers like Jordan Pickford can use their hands, right?
And wouldn’t it be neat for Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. and England’s Harry Kane to exchange thoughts about their respective sports?
Gates to Kauffman Stadium will open at 5 p.m. for the game featuring the I-70 rivals.
Although England doesn’t play a match here in KC, the team has made itself at home by staying in Prairie Village, practicing at Swope Park and turning part of the Parks and Recreation building into its media center.
This story was originally published June 17, 2026 at 11:19 AM.
