The Rose Bowl, primarily known as a prestigious American football venue, has a soccer field that has also carved out a distinguished place in soccer history. Not only was it the home ground for the North American Soccer League’s Los Angeles Wolves in 1968 and the Los Angeles Aztecs in 1978 and 1979, but it also served as the home turf for Major League Soccer’s Los Angeles Galaxy from 1996 to 2002.
Its storied past includes hosting significant soccer events, with the latest feather in its cap being its selection as one of the venues for Copa America 2024. This multifaceted stadium stands as a testament to the blend of American and international sports culture, with its soccer field playing a pivotal role in shaping its legacy.
Soccer Field Specifications at the Rose Bowl
Adhering to FIFA standards, the Rose Bowl’s soccer field is an epitome of world-class sports architecture. It boasts a length of 105 meters and a width of 68 meters, aligning with the international soccer field dimensions. This sprawling green stage has witnessed numerous historic moments, amplified by the echoing cheers of its vast audience. The Rose Bowl’s capacity, further enhanced for major events, turns it into a bustling hub for soccer fans from around the globe, setting the stage for unforgettable athletic showdowns.
Turf Wars: Grass vs. Artificial Turf
The Rose Bowl’s soccer field, with its commitment to providing a premier soccer experience, is a testament to quality and tradition. The stadium’s decision to use natural grass over artificial turf aligns with the traditionalist views that favor natural grass for its authenticity and reduced injury risk. This choice is a clear indication of the Rose Bowl’s dedication to maintaining a top-tier playing surface, resonating with players and fans alike. The natural feel and performance characteristics of real grass on this soccer field are preferred by many, adding to the authentic experience of the games played on this historic ground.
A Hub for Iconic Soccer Matches
The Rose Bowl’s rich history in hosting soccer games is unparalleled. Notable events like the 1994 FIFA World Cup Final, the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup Final, and the 1984 Olympic Gold Medal Match, among others, have graced this hallowed ground. The stadium’s association with soccer extends to hosting numerous U.S. national team games, MLS Cup finals, and CONCACAF Gold Cup Finals. Its selection as a venue for the upcoming Copa America 2024 could add another illustrious chapter to its already storied legacy, possibly hosting the final and setting new records.
A Monumental Achievement in One Year
The Rose Bowl, a landmark in the world of sports, stands not only as a beacon for American football and soccer but also as an architectural marvel. It was designed in 1921 by Myron Hunt, drawing inspiration from the Yale Bowl in New Haven, Connecticut. The Rose Bowl’s construction commenced on February 27, 1922, and remarkably, it was completed within a mere eight months, opening on October 28, 1922.
This swift construction is a testament to the era’s engineering capabilities and determination. The cost of building this iconic stadium was just $272,198, a modest sum by today’s standards, yet it laid the foundation for a century of sports history. Initially shaped like a horseshoe, it was later expanded to become the complete bowl we know today. The Rose Bowl’s soccer field, encompassed within this historic structure, has since become a site of numerous legendary sports moments, continuing to add to the rich tapestry of its storied past
Home Ground Heritage: L.A. Wolves, Aztecs, and Galaxy
The Rose Bowl’s soccer legacy includes being the home ground for the Los Angeles Wolves (1968), the Los Angeles Aztecs (1978-1979), and the Los Angeles Galaxy (1996-2002). Each of these clubs left an indelible mark on the stadium’s history. The Galaxy’s tenure at the Rose Bowl was particularly significant, drawing large crowds and solidifying the stadium’s status in the soccer world. The Galaxy’s eventual move to a more soccer-specific stadium was a strategic decision to foster an intimate fan experience, reflecting the evolving landscape of Major League Soccer.
Copa America 2024: A Soccer Fiesta
Copa America 2024 is set to unfold across a selection of prestigious stadiums, with the Rose Bowl’s soccer field being a significant inclusion in this lineup. As one of the chosen Copa America 2024 stadiums, the Rose Bowl will play a crucial role in hosting key matches of this grand soccer event. This selection reaffirms the stadium’s standing as a prominent venue in the soccer world, ready to provide a world-class experience for both players and fans. The Rose Bowl’s soccer field, with its rich history and modern facilities, is perfectly poised to be part of the vibrant celebration of soccer that Copa America 2024 embodies.
Contrary to earlier expectations, Rose Bowl will not be a venue for Copa America 2024. The complete list of host cities is now confirmed:
Rose Bowl’s Copa America 2016 Legacy
In 2016, the Rose Bowl played a crucial role in Copa America, hosting several matches that left an indelible mark on the tournament’s history. These games showcased the stadium’s ability to host high-caliber international soccer, providing fans with unforgettable experiences and reinforcing the Rose Bowl’s reputation as a premier soccer venue.
During the Copa America 2016, the Rose Bowl in Pasadena hosted three significant matches, each leaving a lasting impression in the tournament’s history:
Brazil – Ecuador 0:0
This match took place on June 4, 2016, as part of Group B. It ended in a goalless draw, with a 0-0 scoreline. The game was notable for its tight competition, showcasing the skill and defensive prowess of both teams.
Colombia – Paraguay 2:1
Held on June 7, 2016, this Group Stage match saw Colombia claim a 2-1 victory over Paraguay. The match was a thrilling encounter, demonstrating Colombia’s offensive strength and tactical acumen in securing the win
Mexico – Jamaica 2:0
On June 9, 2016, Mexico faced Jamaica in Group C play. Mexico emerged victorious with a 2-0 win. The match was significant for Mexico’s impressive passing performance and their ability to secure a spot in the knockout round.
Regarded as the greatest player to ever wear the Chivas jersey, Chicharito could make a triumphant return to the Rose Bowl next year, this time gracing the field as Mexico’s star.
These matches at the Rose Bowl not only highlighted the stadium’s capacity to host high-caliber international soccer but also contributed to the overall excitement and competitive spirit of Copa America 2016. Each game, with its unique storyline and outcome, reinforced the Rose Bowl’s reputation as a premier venue for major soccer events.
Rose Bowl: A Stadium of Soccer Milestones
The Rose Bowl’s soccer credentials are exceptional, being one of only two stadiums to have hosted both the men’s and women’s FIFA World Cup finals. These landmark events, held in 1994 and 1999, were historic not only for their scale but also for their dramatic conclusions, both decided by penalty shootouts. The stadium’s soccer legacy also includes hosting Copa América Centenario matches in 2016, the 1984 Olympics men’s soccer final, and high-profile International Champions Cup matches.
Experience the Magic Again: France vs. Brazil, 1984 Olympics Final:
While the soccer field was considered for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, its legacy will further be celebrated during the 2028 Summer Olympics.
Rose Bowl’s Soccer Field: Hosting Concerts and Cultural Events
Apart from its soccer field prowess, the Rose Bowl has hosted an array of cultural events. Legendary bands like The Rolling Stones, Beyoncé, and U2 have performed on stages set upon its soccer field, transforming the sports arena into a concert venue. These events have showcased the soccer field’s versatility, proving it to be more than just a sports venue, but a cultural landmark.
Due to a unique collaboration between FC Barcelona and Spotify, the iconic Rolling Stones logo was prominently featured on Barcelona’s jerseys, as the team sported the special Barcelona Rolling Stones jersey during the El Clásico match in October 2023. This unique jersey, a result of the partnership between FC Barcelona and Spotify, prominently featured the famous Rolling Stones logo, blending the worlds of music and football in an unprecedented way.
Soccer Field Attendance Records at the Rose Bowl
The soccer field at the Rose Bowl has seen record-breaking crowds for various events. The 1994 FIFA World Cup Final on this soccer field witnessed a historic attendance, demonstrating the universal allure of soccer. Similarly, the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup Final on the same soccer field set new attendance benchmarks for women’s sports. This soccer field has also been the center stage for numerous high-attendance soccer matches and concerts, further highlighting its significance as a premier venue in the sports and entertainment world.
The Rose Bowl’s capacity to draw large crowds is legendary. Among its top attendance events are:
1983 UCLA vs. Michigan College Football Game
Attendance: 106,869. This game underlined the significance of the Rose Bowl in American college football, drawing an enormous crowd.
1994 FIFA World Cup Final
Brazil vs. Italy: 0:0 (3:2 on penalties), Attendance: 94,194. This match set a record, emphasizing the global appeal of soccer on the Rose Bowl’s soccer field.
2014 CONCACAF Gold Cup Final
USA vs. Panama: 1:0, Attendance: 93,420. A key soccer match showcasing the soccer field’s capacity to host large-scale international tournaments.
2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup Final
USA vs. Mexico: 2:4, Attendance: 93,420. Another major soccer event that highlighted the popularity of the sport in the United States and the soccer field’s capability to accommodate large audiences.
1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup Final
USA vs. China: 0:0 (5:4 on penalties), Attendance: 90,185. A groundbreaking event for women’s soccer, drawing a massive crowd to the soccer field.
Who would not remember the iconic moment when, right after scoring the winning penalty, the Mia Hamm jersey got removed in a burst of euphoria, with Mia Hamm swirling it overhead before kneeling down in triumph?