Culver CityBus has officially launched a new dedicated shuttle service called the SoFi Express, designed to transport fans directly to SoFi Stadium in Inglewood for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup matches. The service is part of a broader regional transit effort to manage large crowds, reduce traffic congestion, and encourage public transportation use during one of the world’s biggest sporting events.
The SoFi Express will connect Culver City Transit Center with SoFi Stadium, offering frequent, affordable, and direct rides for soccer fans attending World Cup matches. With Los Angeles expected to host massive international crowds, the new shuttle service aims to make stadium access smoother while supporting eco-friendly travel alternatives.
SoFi Express Shuttle Service Details and Operations
The SoFi Express is a special event-based bus route operated by Culver CityBus, running directly between the Culver City Transit Center and SoFi Stadium’s designated transit zone in Inglewood. The service is scheduled to begin approximately three hours before each World Cup match and will continue operating until after the final whistle, ensuring fans have both arrival and return options.
Buses are expected to run frequently, approximately every 20 minutes, to accommodate high passenger demand. The fare is set at a low-cost rate per ride, making it an affordable transportation option for fans compared to driving and parking near the stadium. Return trips will continue for up to about 90 to 120 minutes after matches end, allowing fans to leave the venue without long wait times.
How Fans Will Travel to SoFi Stadium
The shuttle departs from the Culver City Transit Center, located at the Westfield Culver City area on Sepulveda Boulevard, a key transit hub in the Westside region. From there, buses travel directly to SoFi Stadium’s official drop-off point near Lot S (Arbor Vitae/District Drive), which is within walking distance of the stadium entrances.
Once dropped off, fans typically walk approximately 5 to 10 minutes to reach the stadium gates. The system is designed to integrate with broader Los Angeles transit networks, allowing passengers to connect from Metro lines, Big Blue Bus routes, and other local transportation services to reach the Culver City departure point. This integration helps reduce private vehicle use and improves match-day traffic flow across the region.
Importance for World Cup 2026 in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is one of the key host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and SoFi Stadium is expected to host multiple high-profile matches. With thousands of international visitors and local fans attending each game, transportation agencies are implementing expanded shuttle and rail systems to handle increased demand.
The SoFi Express is part of a larger coordinated transit strategy that includes Metro rail extensions, additional shuttle routes, and designated park-and-ride hubs across Southern California. Similar systems have been used in other major sporting events, but the scale of the World Cup requires a more extensive and synchronized approach to avoid traffic congestion around Inglewood and surrounding neighborhoods.
Shuttle Service Overview Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Service Name | SoFi Express (Culver CityBus Line S9) |
| Operator | Culver CityBus |
| Route | Culver City Transit Center → SoFi Stadium |
| Launch Purpose | 2026 FIFA World Cup matches |
| Frequency | Approximately every 20 minutes |
| Start Time | ~3 hours before kickoff |
| Return Service | Until ~90–120 minutes after match |
| Fare | Low-cost per ride (approx. $1.75 each way) |
| Drop-off Location | SoFi Stadium Transit Zone (Lot S area) |
| Travel Time | Roughly 20–30 minutes (traffic dependent) |
Regional Transit Planning for World Cup Crowds
Transit agencies across Los Angeles County are preparing for one of the largest transportation demands in the region’s history. In addition to Culver CityBus services, Metro is expected to operate enhanced rail and shuttle connections from multiple stations, including LAX/Metro Transit Center and other park-and-ride locations.
These coordinated services aim to reduce vehicle congestion around SoFi Stadium, where parking is limited and traffic bottlenecks are expected during peak match times. Officials have emphasized public transportation as the most efficient and recommended way for fans to reach World Cup events, especially given security restrictions and high attendance levels.
Community and Environmental Benefits
Beyond serving sports fans, the SoFi Express also supports broader environmental and community goals by reducing carbon emissions and traffic congestion. Encouraging shared transportation during large events helps minimize the number of private vehicles on roads, improving air quality and reducing stress on local infrastructure.
Culver CityBus has highlighted that the service is part of its ongoing mission to provide accessible, eco-friendly mobility options for residents and visitors. By integrating sports tourism with public transit systems, the shuttle service also demonstrates how major events can drive long-term improvements in urban transportation habits.
The launch of the SoFi Express shuttle service by Culver CityBus marks an important step in preparing Los Angeles for the massive influx of fans expected during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. By offering a direct, affordable, and frequent connection between Culver City and SoFi Stadium, the service aims to simplify travel for attendees while reducing congestion in one of the city’s busiest event zones.
As Los Angeles continues to build its transportation strategy around the World Cup, services like the SoFi Express highlight the growing role of public transit in managing global-scale sporting events. The initiative not only improves match-day logistics but also reinforces a more sustainable and efficient approach to urban mobility.
FAQ’s:
What is the SoFi Express shuttle?
It is a dedicated Culver CityBus service that transports fans directly to SoFi Stadium for World Cup matches.
Where does the shuttle start and end?
It runs between Culver City Transit Center and SoFi Stadium in Inglewood.
How often do buses run?
Buses operate approximately every 20 minutes on match days.
When does the service operate?
It begins about 3 hours before kickoff and runs until after matches end.
Why was this service launched?
To help manage World Cup crowds, reduce traffic, and provide affordable transportation to the stadium.
