More than 1,000 fans showed up on the waterfront to set a Guinness record for most people receiving a soccer lesson prior to the Sounders-Botafogo match.

Seattle officially holds the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest soccer lesson. On Sunday, June 15, 1,038 people gathered at Pier 62 on the Seattle Waterfront for a 30-minute class led by Sounders and Reign FC alumni,

Locally, officials estimate the local impact of the 2026 World Cup to exceed $929 million. Over 21,000 local jobs are also expected to be created in connection to the World Cup festivities in western Washington. No local revenue figure was released for this year's Club World Cup.

Obed Vargas may not fit the typical profile or have the conventional origin story of a globally sought-after prospect.

After unveiling the countdown clock, Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell criticized the message the travel ban sends. “Today, with this countdown, we are sending a completely different message," Harrell said. "That we are welcoming, and showing this country what welcoming looks like.”

What was once two is now three. The Seattle Sounders, Inter Miami and now Los Angeles FC head into the Club World Cup flying the MLS flag, each with their own goals, ambitions and - truthfully - possibilities. None are among the favorites, but each will have a chance to take something tangible from the tournament.