In this episode, Emily and Kyle connect two big parts of summer 2026: the deep soccer history that makes Western Washington one of the strongest soccer regions in the country, and the real transit planning needed to move people through a major international soccer summer.
First, we hear from Peter Hattrup, former pro, longtime coach, and one of the people who has lived Seattle soccer history from the inside. He explains how the original Sounders, local legends, and decades of player development helped build a lasting soccer culture across the region.
Then they talk with
Alex Ko from
Sound Transit about what it takes to move hundreds of thousands of people safely and reliably during a global event. From special Sounder trains to four-minute light rail service and station planning, this episode gives listeners a practical look at how to prepare now.
Takeaways
- Western Washington did not suddenly become a soccer region. It has been building this culture for decades.
- Summer 2026 will feel bigger than a game. For many people, it will feel more like a regional festival.
- Transit will be a major part of the experience, especially for riders coming from Snohomish County.
- Planning early will make June much easier, whether you are going to a match, a fan zone, or just moving through the region.
In this episode
- Why Seattle and the Puget Sound already have deep soccer roots
- How the original Sounders helped shape the region’s soccer culture
- Why the 1990 and 1994 tournaments were major turning points for soccer in the United States
- What the 2026 soccer tournament may feel like for fans, visitors, and local communities
- How Sound Transit is preparing for six Seattle matches
- What Snohomish County riders should know about Sounder, Link, and station planning
- Why this event is as much a regional operations challenge as it is a sports event
Transit resource
Call for listeners
Know someone who still thinks this tournament will not really affect Snohomish County? Send them this episode. And if you are still deciding how you want to take part, this is your reminder: you do not need a match ticket to be part of the experience. Try a watch party, a fan zone, or a trip into the city just to take in the atmosphere.
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Disclaimer: This podcast is an independent production and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or officially connected to FIFA or the FIFA World Cup.
Theme Music from: https://pixabay.com/music/rock-sport-sports-rock-music-368012/
Episode 5