Tuesday's World Cup Viewing Party Moves To Soldier Field
By Chuck Sudo in News on Jun 30, 2014 1:50PM
For the fourth time in as many games Chicago’s World Cup screening party is on the move. Tuesday’s contest between the United States and Belgium will be screened at Soldier Field after moving to three different locations in Grant Park during the group stage. Fans may watch the game in the stands or on the field; the latter must be wonderful news to the Park District and the Bears who can’t seem to keep the turf in optimal condition for American football.
Crowds have grown as the USMNT worked through the group stage and backed into the knockout round last Thursday with their 1-0 loss to Germany and Portugal’s 2-1 win over Ghana. Over 20,000 fans flocked to Grant Park for the match against Portugal, forcing police to turn away late comers to the viewing party. Chicago and the country has caught World Cup fever, or at least they don’t want to be caught missing out on the bandwagon and a good party.
Over 14 million people watched the match against Germany and the 6.7 rating made it the second-highest-rated World Cup men’s soccer match on ESPN ever. Moving the viewing party to Soldier Field will allow for alcohol sales at the party, as well as other concessions and U.S. Soccer merchandise will also be available for purchase.
Soldier Field gate s will open 1:30 p.m. Tuesday and admission is free, although the stadium’s standard parking rates will apply. We can visualize soccer tailgating parties already.