IRVINE, Calif. — Irvine City Councilmember Melinda Liu (District 1) announced plans to sponsor a series of free community watch parties for the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Great Park Live, providing residents and visitors with an opportunity to come together and celebrate one of the world’s biggest sporting events.
As Irvine prepares to welcome the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) during the FIFA World Cup, city officials had previously explored hosting larger community viewing events. While those plans ultimately proved unfeasible, Liu said she was committed to ensuring that local residents could still share in the excitement of the historic tournament.
“I wanted to make sure our residents and visitors had an opportunity to come together and celebrate this historic moment,” Liu said. “I immediately began working with the PSQ team and City staff to create a free, family-friendly watch party experience for our community.”
Liu emphasized that Irvine’s reputation as one of the nation’s best cities to raise a family played an important role in shaping the event. She said creating an atmosphere that residents of all ages could enjoy was a key priority throughout the planning process.
The councilmember also expressed appreciation to the PSQ team and Great Park staff for helping bring the events to fruition.
“As Chair of the Hotel Improvement District, I am excited to welcome residents and visitors alike to Great Park Live, showcase one of Irvine’s premier destinations, and create opportunities for our community to come together through the spirit of international competition,” Liu said.
She added that the watch parties are intended not only to celebrate the FIFA World Cup, but also to introduce more people to Great Park Live and encourage future participation in community events held at the venue.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is expected to attract millions of fans from around the world. Irvine’s involvement as a host community for World Cup-related activities places the city in the international spotlight during the tournament.
Additional details regarding match schedules and watch party dates are expected to be announced closer to the events.
For more information, contact Councilmember Melinda Liu’s office at MelindaLiu@cityofirvine.org.
