Metro ramps up buses, one‑fare rides and wayfinding for World Cup matches at SoFi

Chris Reyes, Metro senior director overseeing World Cup operations, told Inglewood residents that Metro has created a dedicated transit network for the eight matches at SoFi Stadium and expects exceptionally high ridership.

"The expectation for each one of these matches is that Metro brings in about 25,000 people," Reyes said, noting that normal NFL events bring roughly 5,000 riders. To handle that demand, Metro developed a tailored network that includes roughly 300 buses — a combination of Metro vehicles, regional partners and chartered buses — running from about 15 direct routes into the stadium footprint.

Why it matters: Metro’s plan is designed to reduce private cars on match days by providing more direct, one‑seat options from hubs around the region and by expanding parking‑and‑ride partnerships, including using El Camino College as a staging hub for shuttle service.

Reyes said match‑day transit service for the event will use Metro’s regular $1.75 fare for these routes. "We're not doing any of that. It's all $1.75," he said when asked whether fares would increase for the matches. Metro also pushed its open‑payment system so one‑time visitors — including international guests — can tap with credit/debit cards, Apple/Google Wallet or contactless devices rather than buying a special card.

The agency described a set of operational and customer‑facing measures intended to help people unfamiliar with the system: high‑visibility staff in bright uniforms (Metro MVPs) to guide riders; expanded wayfinding in the tournament color scheme; language support via on‑site phone towers; and sensory‑activation spaces for neurodivergent visitors who need a quieter area away from crowds.

Metro emphasized coordination with other regional operators — Big Blue Bus, Culver CityBus, Foothill Transit, Long Beach Transit, Metrolink and Amtrak — and said hundreds of charter buses would supplement agency fleets to create near one‑seat rides from many parts of the county.

The presentation closed with outreach plans: Metro staff will host a table at the Wood Cup community activation and distribute commemorative tap cards and promotional materials to help residents and visitors recognize match‑day services. Reyes invited residents to ask follow‑up questions at the activation and to use Metro’s communications channels for real‑time updates.

For now, Metro officials said they will continue monitoring operations and adjust service as needed during the tournament.