The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the first tournament hosted across three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Matches will be played in 16 stadiums throughout North America.
Since many World Cup games will be played in daytime or early evening, and many in warmer climates, understanding where shade develops in each venue and how heat affects fans can make a big difference in comfort. Staying aware of sun exposure can help you plan a more comfortable match experience.
This guide highlights each host venue and links to detailed shade information to help you choose seats that balance view and sun protection.
In total, the United States has 11 stadiums, Mexico has 3, and Canada has 2. Click to view any stadium’s shade guide and recommendations.
View the stadiums for:
United States Stadiums
Atlanta Stadium
Best Sides for Shade
- Upper Deck
- South Side
Best Shaded Sections
- 106 – 114
- 201 – 219
- 301 – 322
Boston Stadium
Best Sides for Shade
- West Side
- South Side
- Upper Deck
Best Shaded Sections
- 125 – 138
- 223 – 238
- 323 – 340
- 120 – 122 Upper Rows
Dallas Stadium
Best Sides for Shade
- West Side
- South Side
Best Shaded Sections
- C106 – C115, C206 – C215, C305 – C314
- 120 – 126
- 220 – 226
- 321 – 326
- 401 – 430
Houston Stadium
Best Sides for Shade
- West Side
- South Side
Best Shaded Sections
- 101 – 112
- 303 – 316
- 501 – 515
- 601 – 616
Kansas City Stadium
Best Sides for Shade
- Upper Deck
- West Side
Best Shaded Sections
- 114 – 124
- 218 – 231
- 318 – 331
Los Angeles Stadium
Best Sides for Shade
- Upper Deck
- West Side
- South Side
Best Shaded Sections
- C106 – C118
- 212 – 227
- 314 – 331
- 405 – 425
- 504 – 525
Miami Stadium
Best Sides for Shade
- Upper Deck
- South Side
Best Shaded Sections
- 138 – 154
- 238 – 254
- 337 – 355
New York / New Jersey Stadium
Best Sides for Shade
- West Side
- South Side
Best Shaded Sections
- 123 – 144
- 221- 231 (A & B Sections)
- 321 – 344
Philadelphia Stadium
Best Sides for Shade
- Upper Deck
- West Side
- South Side
Best Shaded Sections
- 106 – 134
- 207 – 239
- C1 – C6
- C35 – C40
San Francisco Bay Area Stadium
Seattle Stadium
Best Sides for Shade
- Upper Deck
- West Side
Best Shaded Sections
- 130 – 140
- 230 – 240
- 330 – 340
- 304 – 314
Mexico Stadiums
Mexico City Stadium
Best Sides for Shade
- West Side
Best Shaded Sections
- 101 – 113
- 201 – 215
- 301 – 308
- 503 – 517
- 603 – 618
Estadio Guadalajara
Best Sides for Shade
- West Side
Best Shaded Sections
- T1 01 – 06
- T1 34 – 38
- T2 01 – 10
- T2 41 – 48
Estadio Monterrey
Best Sides for Shade
- West Side
Best Shaded Sections
- 101 – 106
- 133 – 138
- CSP A – G
- 201 – 223
Canada Stadiums
Toronto Stadium
BC Place Vancouver
Heat & Comfort During World Cup Matches
World Cup scheduling differs from most domestic leagues. Matches may be played throughout the day, and several host cities experience high summer temperatures.
In response, FIFA will implement cooling breaks during periods of extreme heat to help players manage conditions. While these breaks are important, fans may still be exposed to direct sun for extended periods, making shaded seating an important consideration.
General tips:
- Upper sections with overhangs tend to gain shade earlier.
- In open-air stadiums, one sideline usually becomes shaded before the opposite side.
- Retractable-roof venues provide the most consistent sun protection.
- Hydration and sun protection are essential, even when seated in shaded areas.
How to Use This Guide
Each stadium link provides:
- Typical shade patterns
- Seating areas more likely to stay out of direct sun
- Structural features that affect sun exposure
- Practical seat-selection guidance for daytime events
Use this information before purchasing tickets to improve comfort during long matches.
The World Cup offers a unique opportunity to see world-class soccer in some of North America’s most recognizable venues. By understanding how each stadium handles sun and shade, you can make better seating decisions and enjoy the tournament more comfortably.