# GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium – FIFA World Cup 2026 Stadium Guide
GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri is one of the most legendary sporting venues in America. Home to the loudest fans in the NFL, it will bring an unmatched atmosphere to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
What is the history of Arrowhead Stadium?
Arrowhead Stadium opened in 1972 as part of the Truman Sports Complex, alongside Kauffman Stadium (home of the Kansas City Royals). It was built at a cost of approximately $43 million (roughly $315 million in today's dollars).
The stadium is home to the Kansas City Chiefs (NFL), one of the most successful franchises in recent history with multiple Super Bowl victories. Arrowhead holds the Guinness World Record for loudest crowd roar at a sporting event (142.2 dB in 2014). It has hosted AFC Championships, international soccer friendlies, and concerts. The venue underwent a $375 million renovation in 2010 that modernized seating, concourses, and premium areas.
Arrowhead's open-air bowl design and passionate fanbase create one of the most intimidating atmospheres in professional sports.
What is the FIFA World Cup capacity of Arrowhead Stadium?
The FIFA World Cup configuration seats approximately 70,000 spectators. The regular NFL capacity is 76,416.
The reduction accounts for the soccer pitch configuration, FIFA hospitality installations, media infrastructure, and some seating reconfiguration to optimize sightlines for the rectangular soccer pitch within the oval-shaped bowl.
What is the seating layout at Arrowhead Stadium?
Arrowhead features a classic bowl design with three tiers:
- Lower Level (100 Level): Closest to the pitch with steep sightlines. Sections 101–136.
- Club Level (200 Level): Premium midlevel with club lounges and upscale amenities. Sections 201–236.
- Upper Level (300 Level): High vantage point with sweeping views. Sections 301–346.
Shade: As an open-air stadium, there is no roof coverage. The upper deck overhang provides some shade for sections of the club level, but most seats — especially in the lower and upper bowls — are fully exposed to sun and weather. Bring sunscreen and hats for daytime matches.
Premium areas include the Ford Founder's Club, CommunityAmerica Club, and multiple suite levels. FIFA will install dedicated hospitality areas.
What items are prohibited at Arrowhead Stadium during the World Cup?
FIFA's clear-bag policy: one clear bag no larger than 12" x 6" x 12" or a small clutch (4.5" x 6.5" max).
Prohibited items include:
- Backpacks, purses, non-clear bags
- Professional cameras with detachable lenses
- Laptops, large tablets
- Umbrellas
- Outside food and beverages
- Flags on poles, oversized banners
- Drones, laser pointers, noisemakers
- Weapons, fireworks, flares
- Unauthorized signage
Security: Airport-style screening. Gates open 2–3 hours before kickoff. Arrive early.
What food and drink options are available at Arrowhead Stadium?
Kansas City is the BBQ capital of America, and Arrowhead's concessions reflect that. Expect signature BBQ brisket, burnt ends, pulled pork, and ribs from local favorites.
For the 2026 World Cup, expanded international food vendors will add tacos, jerk chicken, falafel, empanadas, and dishes from around the world alongside the legendary KC BBQ.
Alcohol policy: FIFA's two-drink limit per purchase. Beer, wine, cocktails available. Sales end around the 60th minute. Valid ID required.
Fully cashless — cards and mobile payments only.
What is the weather like at Arrowhead Stadium during the World Cup?
Arrowhead is open-air with no roof.
During the World Cup period (June 11 – July 19, 2026):
- Average high temperatures: 86–93°F (30–34°C)
- Average low temperatures: 66–72°F (19–22°C)
- Humidity: Moderate to high (55–75%)
- Rain: Thunderstorms common in the Great Plains, with 30–40% chance daily. Storms can be severe.
- Sun exposure: High UV index (7–9)
Kansas City summers are hot and can be humid. Severe thunderstorms with lightning, hail, or high winds are possible. Bring sunscreen and a clear poncho. In case of severe weather, spectators will be directed to covered concourse areas.
What are the accessibility features at Arrowhead Stadium?
Arrowhead Stadium is ADA-compliant:
- Wheelchair-accessible seating on all levels
- Elevators and ramps serving all concourses
- Accessible restrooms throughout
- Assistive listening devices available
- Service animals permitted
FIFA Family Zones with nursing rooms, quiet spaces, and family amenities.
Accessible parking in the Truman Sports Complex lots. Contact FIFA ticketing for accommodations.
What restaurants and attractions are near Arrowhead Stadium?
Arrowhead is located in the Truman Sports Complex on the east side of Kansas City.
- Kauffman Stadium — home of the Kansas City Royals (adjacent)
- Tailgate lots — the Truman Sports Complex has massive parking areas traditionally used for legendary KC tailgates
- Power & Light District — downtown KC's premier entertainment district with restaurants, bars, and live music
- KC BBQ Trail — Joe's Kansas City, Q39, Jack Stack Barbecue, Gates BBQ
- Union Station — stunning Beaux-Arts station with Science City and special exhibitions
- National World War I Museum and Memorial — world-class museum and iconic Liberty Memorial tower
- Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art — free admission, world-renowned collection
- Country Club Plaza — upscale outdoor shopping district with Spanish-inspired architecture
- 18th and Vine Jazz District — historic jazz heritage, American Jazz Museum, and Gem Theater
Stadium details
- FIFA name
- Kansas City Stadium
- Regular name
- Arrowhead Stadium
- Capacity
- 76,416
- Roof
- Open
- Surface
- Natural grass
- Year built
- 1972
- Regular tenant
- Kansas City Chiefs (NFL)
- Coordinates
- 39.0489, -94.484
Prohibited items
- Weapons and sharp objects
- Glass bottles and cans
- Alcohol
- Fireworks, flares, and smoke devices
- Drones and unmanned aircraft
- Professional cameras with detachable lenses
- Tripods and selfie sticks
- Large bags (over 14" x 14" x 6")
- Outside food and beverages
- Laser pointers
- Noisemakers (horns, vuvuzelas, megaphones)
- Political banners or offensive material
- Umbrellas
Match-day information
- Gates open 3 hours before kickoff
- Arrive at least 2 hours early to clear security
- Clear bag policy enforced by FIFA
- Mobile tickets only—download the FIFA+ app
- Re-entry is not permitted once you leave the stadium
Getting to the venue
Limited public transit. Match-day shuttle from downtown. Ride-share or personal vehicle recommended. Ample stadium parking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Arrowhead Stadium?
Drive via I-70, I-435, or US-71. Parking is available in the Truman Sports Complex lots. Rideshare drop-off zones will be designated. Special shuttle services from downtown KC are expected for the World Cup. KC does not have rail transit to the stadium.
Is tailgating allowed?
Traditional Chiefs tailgating is world-famous, but it may be **modified or restricted** for the World Cup. FIFA Fan Festivals and official pre-match zones will be the main gathering areas.
Is Arrowhead Stadium cashless?
Yes. **Cards and mobile payments only.**
Can I re-enter the stadium?
**No.** FIFA's **no re-entry policy** applies.
How early should I arrive?
Gates open **2–3 hours before kickoff.** Arrive at least 2 hours early.
What if severe weather hits during a match?
Matches may be **temporarily suspended** for dangerous weather (lightning, severe storms). Spectators should move to covered concourse areas and follow PA announcements.
Is there shade at the stadium?
Very limited. Arrowhead is **open-air** with no roof. Most seats are exposed. The upper deck overhang shades some club sections.
Where should I eat BBQ in Kansas City?
Top recommendations: **Joe's Kansas City** (formerly Oklahoma Joe's), **Q39**, **Jack Stack Barbecue**, **Gates BBQ**, and **Arthur Bryant's**. Kansas City BBQ is widely considered the best in the country.
Are there nearby hotels?
Hotels along I-70 and in the Stadium area. Downtown KC hotels (15–20 minutes) offer more dining and nightlife options.
Where will the FIFA Fan Festival be?
The Kansas City FIFA Fan Festival is expected in the **Power & Light District** or near Union Station downtown.
What is the capacity of Kansas City Stadium?
FIFA lists Kansas City Stadium at 76,416 seats for World Cup configuration.
What is the real name of Kansas City Stadium?
Kansas City Stadium is FIFA’s tournament branding, while locals usually call the building Arrowhead Stadium.
What items are prohibited at Kansas City Stadium?
Expect bans on large bags, outside food and alcohol, umbrellas, professional cameras without credentials, and fireworks—mirror the full checklist printed below.
Does Kansas City Stadium have a roof?
Roof coverage depends on the venue architecture—see the Roof line in Stadium details on this page (open air vs fixed vs retractable).
When do gates open at Kansas City Stadium?
World Cup gates traditionally open about three hours before the scheduled kickoff.
Is Kansas City Stadium accessible for disabled fans?
Yes—FIFA venues include ADA seating, elevators/ramps, companion seats, and assisted listening upon request.
Can I bring food into Kansas City Stadium?
Outside food and drink are usually blocked; plan to buy concessions inside unless FIFA publishes an exception for medical needs.
What bag policy does Kansas City Stadium have?
Bring only small, clear bags within FIFA’s published size limits; anything larger should stay at the hotel.