In partnership with the Seattle Fifa World Cup 2026 Committee (SeattleFWC26) and the U.S. Association of Blind Athletes (USABA), Salmon Bay FC and Ballard FC are hosting a Blind Soccer International Ranking Tournament this weekend, May 23-24, at Interbay Stadium.
Ahead of the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup coming to Seattle this summer, a first-of-its-kind event in the Pacific Northwest is coming to Interbay Stadium. A Blind Soccer International Ranking Tournament will bring together international competition, elite athletes, and community engagement—elevating Seattle onto the global stage of adaptive sport.
Positioned as both a high-level international competition and a developmental opportunity, the tournament is designed to build visibility, expand access, and create lasting momentum for Blind Soccer in the region ahead of the World Cup.
Event Details
There are three National teams coming to compete: the U.S. Blind Soccer Men’s National Team, Kazakhstan’s national team, and Peru’s national team. These three teams will be joined by adaptive sports leaders and coaches from around the world.
All three teams will play each other once across the two-day tournament. As an official international ranking competition, the tournament will feature meaningful matches that contribute to global standings—bringing a new level of intensity and significance to play in Seattle. The weekend will include a dynamic mix of competition, training, and community engagement, offering a comprehensive look at one of the fastest-growing adaptive sports in the world.
This weekend’s blind soccer tournament is not ticketed and free to attend. After Salmon Bay FC’s home opener on Friday night, fans can enjoy more high quality soccer at Interbay Stadium all weekend long.
Attendees can expect the following:
- International ranking matches featuring the U.S. Blind Soccer Men’s National Team, Kazakhstan, Peru, and other competing teams
- Community demonstrations introducing Blind Soccer to new audiences
- Educational opportunities highlighting accessibility, inclusion, and innovation in sport
This format positions Seattle as both a competitive host city and a center for learning and engagement—while continuing to build audience awareness and excitement as additional teams are confirmed.
Advancing Accessibility and Legacy
The Blind Soccer International Ranking Tournament is part of a broader effort to ensure accessibility and inclusion are central to Seattle’s FIFA World Cup 2026™ legacy.
This event aims to:
- Increase awareness and understanding of Blind Soccer at a global level
- Expand adaptive sports opportunities across Washington State
- Establish the Pacific Northwest as a recognized hub for Blind Soccer development
- Create pathways for athletes from grassroots to elite international competition
Event Schedule
Saturday, May 23
- 11:00 AM: USA v. Peru
- 1:45 PM: Kazakhstan v. Peru
- 3:00 – 4:30 PM: Fan Engagement & Community Activation
Sunday, May 24
- 11:00 AM: USA v. Kazakhstan
- 12:30 PM: Awards Ceremony and Photo Opportunities.
