Shaded Seating at Audi Field

What You Need to Know About Shade at Audi Field

Audi Field, located at Buzzard Point in Washington, D.C., is the home of D.C. United (MLS), the Washington Spirit (NWSL), and the D.C. Defenders (UFL). Opened in 2018, the stadium is exceptionally intimate, with the front row of seats just 8 feet from the pitch.

It is known for its steep stands that trap noise and its safe-standing north end, where the most passionate fans stand and chant for the full 90 minutes.

How Shade Actually Works Here

Audi Field is oriented North-to-South, which is ideal for evening soccer matches as it keeps the sun out of the players’ eyes.

For a 1:00 PM game, the sun is high and slightly southeast. As the afternoon progresses, it moves behind the west stands. This creates a shade creep that moves from the west touchline across the pitch. By 3:00 PM, the entire west side is typically in the shade, while the east side and south goal line remain squarely in the sun.

The West Side is Best for Shade

If you are sun-sensitive, your strategy should be to stay on the west side of the stadium.

• Sections 123 – 131: These will be the best sections for shade for the majority of the day. The upper rows are physically beneath the roof overhang, providing protection from both the sun and light rain.

• Midfield Preference: Target section 127 to be closest to the midfield line while staying in the deepest part of the shadow.

Late Afternoon and Evening Games

In the late afternoon (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM), the shade completely covers the west sideline and begins to stretch toward the midfield stripe.

For evening games (7:30 PM starts), the west side is a sanctuary of shade. Be aware that the upper rows of the east side (200-level) stay sunny the longest. The setting sun dips low and can shine directly under the east roof for a final “blast” of sunlight before finally disappearing behind the west grandstand around 7:30 PM.