Lumen Field – stadium description

Where does Lumen Field get its name from?

The name Lumen Field comes from the American company Lumen Technologies, which has been the stadium’s title sponsor since November 2020. In practice, it is a continuation of a long-standing sponsorship: the venue was previously called CenturyLink Field, and after CenturyLink rebranded to Lumen Technologies in 2020, the stadium’s name was updated accordingly.

The partnership dates back to 2004, when the original naming-rights deal was signed with Qwest Communications. After Qwest was acquired by CenturyLink in 2011, the stadium was renamed CenturyLink Field; following another corporate rebrand, in November 2020 the venue adopted its current name, Lumen Field. It was therefore less a change of sponsor than an alignment of the stadium’s name with the sponsor’s current corporate brand.

Lumen Technologies is a major U.S. telecommunications and technology company specializing in fiber services, cybersecurity, cloud solutions, and network infrastructure for business. The stadium naming rights are part of the company’s strategy to strengthen brand recognition in the United States and position itself as a modern technology leader.

Under the Lumen Field banner operates the broader sports-and-events complex, including the adjacent Lumen Field Event Center. The name change did not spark significant controversy among Seattle Seahawks and Seattle Sounders FC supporters, since it maintained continuity with the existing sponsor and the venue remains a key symbol of the city regardless of its commercial name.

Where is Lumen Field located?

Lumen Field is in Seattle, Washington, on the U.S. Pacific Northwest coast. The stadium sits in the SoDo (South of Downtown) district, just south of the city center, in an area with an industrial-commercial character. The address is 800 Occidental Avenue South, Seattle, WA 98134.

The site is no accident—the stadium was built on the footprint of the old Kingdome, a multipurpose venue demolished in 2000. The surrounding area has long served as Seattle’s sports hub. Directly next door is T-Mobile Park, home of MLB’s Seattle Mariners, together forming the city’s largest sports complex.

Lumen Field’s location makes it a natural landmark in Seattle’s cityscape—its distinctive silhouette and roof arches are visible from the downtown skyline and the waterfront piers alike. It also lies close to Pioneer Square, one of Seattle’s oldest and most historically important districts, reinforcing the venue’s ties to the city’s identity and the broader Puget Sound region.

What is the seating capacity of Lumen Field?

The official capacity of Lumen Field is 68,740 for NFL football, when the Seattle Seahawks play. With temporary seating and standing areas, maximum attendance for select sporting events or concerts can exceed 69,000, making it one of the largest sports venues in Washington State.

For Major League Soccer matches, capacity is flexibly adjusted to Seattle Sounders FC’s operational needs. Typically, only the lower bowl and part of the east stand are opened, reducing capacity to roughly 37,000–40,000. For major fixtures—such as MLS Conference Finals or high-demand games—the entire stadium is opened, restoring capacity to the full 68,740.

As a multipurpose venue, the number of available spaces varies by event type. Large concert stages installed on one stand can reduce the number of seats, while mass-gathering events on the field allow additional standing room. Thanks to this flexibility, Lumen Field hosts a wide range of events, from league matches and international soccer tournaments (including the CONCACAF Gold Cup, Copa América 2016, and the 2026 FIFA World Cup) to the largest concerts by global artists.

When did Lumen Field open?

Lumen Field officially opened on July 20, 2002, following a three-year construction project on the site of the former Kingdome. The opening festivities included a series of sports and cultural events, but the first official event in the new stadium was a soccer match between the Seattle Sounders (A-League) and the Vancouver Whitecaps on July 28, 2002.

The first American football game came shortly after, on August 11, 2002, when the Seattle Seahawks hosted a preseason game against the Indianapolis Colts. The first regular-season NFL game at the new stadium was played on September 15, 2002, against the Arizona Cardinals.

The project was the result of a public-private effort to modernize Washington State’s sports infrastructure after the Kingdome’s demolition. The investment was approved by Washington voters in a 1997 referendum, enabling construction to begin in 2000. The venue initially operated as Seahawks Stadium before acquiring commercial naming rights.

Who uses Lumen Field on a day-to-day basis?

Lumen Field is first and foremost the home of the Seattle Seahawks of the NFL, who have played all their home games there since the venue opened in 2002. The stadium was designed with the Seahawks’ needs in mind, so the seating bowl, back-of-house, and premium spaces are tailored to American-football operations.

The stadium’s second primary tenant is Seattle Sounders FC of MLS, who moved in 2009 and quickly became one of the best-supported clubs in the United States, regularly posting league-leading attendances. As a result, Lumen Field is also renowned as one of North America’s loudest soccer venues, with MLS matchdays regarded among the league’s most vibrant.

OL Reign of the NWSL also played home matches at the stadium on a temporary basis from 2019–2021. In 2012, University of Washington Huskies football used the venue while Husky Stadium was being renovated. Beyond its regular sports tenants, Lumen Field hosts numerous international events, concerts, and mass gatherings, serving as one of Seattle’s key event centers.

What events have taken place at Lumen Field?

Since 2002, Lumen Field has staged many high-profile national and international events. The venue regularly hosts NFL games with the Seattle Seahawks, including multiple playoff fixtures. It is also a major soccer stage. Matches in the CONCACAF Gold Cup (2005, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2023) have been played here, as were Copa América Centenario 2016 games, including the Argentina vs. Venezuela quarter-final featuring Lionel Messi. In 2026, the stadium will be one of the FIFA World Cup host venues in the U.S., Canada and Mexico.

The venue has played an important role in the rise of American club soccer. Seattle Sounders FC have set multiple MLS attendance records here, and in 2022 the club won the CONCACAF Champions League, celebrating in front of a full house at Lumen Field. The stadium has hosted U.S. Open Cup finals and numerous international friendlies featuring FC Barcelona, Chelsea, Club América, Manchester United, and others.

Lumen Field is also a leading entertainment and cultural venue in the Pacific Northwest. Concerts by U2, Beyoncé, Metallica, Taylor Swift, Coldplay, The Rolling Stones, Ed Sheeran, and others have drawn crowds of tens of thousands. The stadium has welcomed major civic, religious, and business gatherings, trade shows, and even esports and motorsports events (including Monster Jam and Supercross). Thanks to its versatility and operational flexibility, Lumen Field is among the most active multi-purpose arenas in the United States.

What does the architecture of Lumen Field look like?

Lumen Field combines a contemporary aesthetic with the functionality typical of American stadiums. Designed by Ellerbe Becket (now AECOM) with LMN Architects of Seattle, the venue is defined by two monumental steel arches that support the roof over the sideline stands. This structure gives the stadium its recognizable profile while providing practical shelter for much of the crowd—particularly important in Seattle’s climate.

One of the stadium’s most distinctive architectural features is its open north end, which frames views of the downtown skyline and the iconic Space Needle. The opening promotes natural ventilation and admits additional daylight to the stands and field. The designers also prioritized acoustics—steel and concrete surfaces and the steep rake of the seating bowl focus and amplify crowd noise, helping forge the stadium’s reputation for extraordinary loudness, a hallmark of Seahawks supporters known as the 12th Man.

The stands are angled to provide excellent sightlines from every seat. The relatively steep rake brings fans close to the action and creates an atmosphere reminiscent of European soccer venues—something appreciated by Seattle Sounders FC fans as well. The complex also includes extensive commercial and conference facilities, numerous business suites, and the Lumen Field Event Center, making the stadium a versatile, cohesive sports-and-events destination.

What amenities and technological solutions does Lumen Field offer?

Lumen Field ranks among the most advanced U.S. stadiums in infrastructure and technology. Fans find extensive services, including numerous concession points, team stores, family areas, and over 11,000 premium seats—VIP suites, Sky Suites, Club Seats, and the Delta Sky360° Club. Beyond the seating bowl, the Lumen Field Event Center offers over 28,000 m² of flexible event space for trade shows, conferences, and major commercial events.

Technologically, the stadium is continually upgraded to enhance comfort and event quality. Lumen Field features advanced LED sports lighting, a modern sound system, and two giant high-resolution video boards totaling 350+ m² of display area. In recent years, the venue has overhauled its digital backbone with next-generation Wi-Fi, enhanced mobile services, and a cashless payments system that speeds up transactions at points of sale.

Lumen Field is also one of the greenest stadiums in the NFL. The venue operates extensive recycling and composting programs, implements systems to reduce energy and water consumption, and uses solar panels and other solutions to cut CO₂ emissions. The stadium holds LEED certification for energy efficiency and sustainable construction. Collectively, these amenities make Lumen Field a modern, functional, and environmentally conscious complex suited to top-tier sports and cultural events.

How can you get to Lumen Field and what transport options are available?

Located in Seattle’s SoDo district, Lumen Field is easy to reach from across the city and the wider metro area. The stadium sits at 800 Occidental Avenue South and is convenient for both locals and visiting fans.

Driving is the most common option. Numerous stadium-operated and commercial parking facilities are located nearby, including the North Lot, South Lot, and the multi-level CenturyLink Field Garage. Additional parking can be found in Pioneer Square and along the waterfront district.

On game and event days, taxis and rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are popular; designated pick-up and drop-off zones operate close to the venue. Thanks to the stadium’s proximity to downtown, many hotels are within walking distance. Cycling is another alternative—dedicated racks and secure parking for bikes are provided around the stadium.

What sporting events are held at Lumen Field?

Lumen Field is primarily a stage for two sports: American football and soccer. Since 2002 it has been the home of the Seattle Seahawks (NFL). All Seahawks home games are played here, and the venue has frequently hosted NFL playoff contests—one of the league’s most intimidating road environments due to the famed volume of the 12th Man. The stadium is also used for college football and high-school/state competitions.

Soccer is the venue’s second pillar. Since 2009, Seattle Sounders FC—one of MLS’s most decorated and popular clubs—have played here. It was at Lumen Field that the club celebrated its historic 2022 CONCACAF Champions League triumph, a landmark for American soccer. The stadium has also hosted U.S. Open Cup finals, Nations League matches, and World Cup qualifying fixtures.

In addition to regular league play, Lumen Field regularly stages prestigious international events. It has repeatedly hosted the CONCACAF Gold Cup, staged a Copa América Centenario 2016 quarter-final, and will serve as a FIFA World Cup 2026 venue. The stadium also accommodates anniversary friendlies and international club exhibitions featuring top teams from Europe and South America.

Are concerts or other cultural events held at Lumen Field?

Lumen Field regularly hosts concerts and major cultural events. It is one of the largest music venues in the Pacific Northwest and attracts world-class artists. Performers have included Beyoncé, U2, Taylor Swift, The Rolling Stones, Metallica, Coldplay, Ed Sheeran, Paul McCartney, and Jay-Z. Concerts often draw 60,000+ attendees, cementing Lumen Field’s role as a regional music hub.

The venue is also used for large-scale entertainment spectacles. Monster Jam and AMA Supercross Championship events are regular fixtures, drawing motorsports fans from across the United States. The stadium has repeatedly hosted major civic and religious gatherings, including church conventions and charity events.

The adjoining Lumen Field Event Center enables trade shows, conferences, festivals, and business events. Notable examples include the Seattle Boat Show, Home Show, gaming festivals, esports events, and large corporate functions. This versatility makes Lumen Field one of Washington State’s premier cultural and entertainment centers.

What attendance records have been set at Lumen Field?

Lumen Field has set multiple attendance records in both American football and soccer. The single highest official crowd in stadium history was recorded on June 27, 2009, for a U2 concert, drawing over 67,000 fans. In sports, top figures have come during Seattle Seahawks NFL playoff games, which frequently sell out at the football configuration’s maximum of 68,740.

In soccer, the venue is etched into MLS history for some of the league’s largest crowds. Seattle Sounders FC’s club record came on March 4, 2023, in the MLS season opener against Colorado Rapids, attended by 69,274—a record for a league match at the stadium. Earlier highs also exceeded 68,000, especially for MLS playoffs or marquee matches such as the Portland Timbers clash in 2022.

International events have likewise produced huge turnouts. During Copa América Centenario 2016 and multiple editions of the CONCACAF Gold Cup, matches featuring the U.S., Mexico, or Argentina regularly drew 60,000+. Known for its fervent atmosphere, Lumen Field has also twice set world marks for stadium noise levels, peaking at 136.6 dB in 2013.

Has Lumen Field undergone renovations or expansions?

since opening in 2002, Lumen Field has been modernized repeatedly to maintain high standards and meet evolving NFL, MLS, and international soccer requirements. Early major upgrades arrived in 2013 with new sound systems and improved video infrastructure. In 2015, additional fan areas were added, including the popular Toyota Fan Deck on the north side, enhancing functionality and modestly boosting capacity.

A further phase came in 2022 for the venue’s 20th anniversary. The Fanovation project refreshed premium areas, rebuilt concessions, and installed higher-resolution LED boards. The stadium also expanded its digital infrastructure, rolling out fully cashless payments and upgraded Wi-Fi.

The most significant works are tied to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, for which Lumen Field is a host. Preparations include technical-back-of-house upgrades, replacing the artificial turf with natural grass, adapting lighting and safety systems to FIFA standards, and expanding media and broadcast infrastructure. These improvements aim to elevate the stadium to the standard expected of one of North America’s premier sports venues.

How will Lumen Field be used during the 2026 World Cup?

Lumen Field will be one of the host venues for the FIFA World Cup 2026, staged in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Seattle’s stadium is among 16 selected arenas and will play a significant role in both the group stage and the knockout rounds. According to the official FIFA schedule, six matches will be played at the venue—four in the group stage and two in the knockout phase—making Lumen Field one of the tournament’s key sites.

Stadium preparations include a series of upgrades to meet FIFA requirements. The most notable change is the replacement of the current artificial surface with natural grass, as mandated for top-tier FIFA tournaments. Media zones, technical back-of-house, and team facilities are being reworked to satisfy international broadcast and major-event operations standards. Parts of the seating bowl are also being upgraded—backless benches in certain sections will be replaced with standard seats to improve comfort and aesthetics.

During the World Cup, the stadium will operate under a temporary, non-commercial name in line with FIFA rules prohibiting sponsor names during the tournament. Accordingly, Lumen Field will be referred to as Seattle Stadium. Hosting World Cup matches is highly significant for the city and the Puget Sound region, with hundreds of thousands of visiting fans expected and major economic, tourism, and branding benefits anticipated for Seattle and Washington State.