Seattle Sounders FC to host home opener on Sunday

The MLS champions kick off their 2026 season against the Colorado Rapids

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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The Seattle Sounders FC will host their 2026 home opener against the Colorado Rapids on Sunday, February 23rd at Lumen Field. The Sounders are coming off a Leagues Cup championship in 2025 and are looking to start the new season on a high note at home, where they have historically been dominant, winning around 70% of their matches.

Why it matters

The Sounders are one of the most successful and popular MLS franchises, with a passionate fanbase in Seattle. Their home opener marks the start of the team's quest to defend their league title and add to their trophy cabinet. The match also serves as a preview of the team's preparations for hosting matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as Lumen Field will undergo turf renovations in the coming months.

The details

The Sounders will be without several key players who are away on international duty, but the team is still expected to field a strong lineup against the Rapids. After a disappointing playoff exit in 2025, the Sounders are eager to get back on the pitch and prove they are still the team to beat in MLS.

  • The Sounders home opener is on Sunday, February 23, 2026 at 6:15 PM PT.
  • The team will not return to Lumen Field until mid-April as the venue prepares for new turf ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The players

Seattle Sounders FC

The reigning MLS Cup champions, known for their passionate fanbase and consistent success in the league.

Colorado Rapids

An MLS club based in Commerce City, Colorado, who will be the Sounders' opening day opponent.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to get back on the pitch and start the new season on a high note in front of our home fans. After the disappointment of last year's playoffs, we're hungry to prove ourselves again and defend our title.”

— Cristian Roldan, Midfielder, Seattle Sounders FC (Source)

What’s next

The Sounders will not return to Lumen Field until mid-April as the venue prepares new turf for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Their next home match is scheduled for April 19th against the Portland Timbers.

The takeaway

The Seattle Sounders FC remain one of the powerhouses of MLS, and their home opener against the Colorado Rapids kicks off their quest to defend their league title. With a passionate fanbase and a history of success at Lumen Field, the Sounders will look to start the 2026 season on a strong note before preparing the stadium for the 2026 World Cup.