As American soccer continues to expand its horizons, the Coachella Valley Invitational (CVI) has emerged as a significant preseason event for both Major League Soccer (MLS) and the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). From its humble beginnings, the CVI is poised to solidify its place as a premier platform where teams can fine-tune their skills while engaging with fans in an intimate setting.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, the CVI will take place from February 1 to February 22. This sprawling 1,000-acre venue has not only served as the site for the prestigious Coachella and Stagecoach music festivals but has also become a vital hub for soccer. Over the course of three weeks, the facility will welcome nearly half of the teams in both the MLS and the NWSL, marking a substantial increase in the event’s scope from previous years.
Kara Korber, AEG’s senior director of business development, has acknowledged that the current capacity stands at 20 teams, but with further enhancements to the infrastructure, there is potential for growth. This vision is indicative of the ambition that AEG brings to the table in nurturing soccer’s landscape in America.
One of the standout features of the Coachella Valley Invitational is its focus on fan interaction. With two dedicated fields for practices and games, teams have the flexibility to run closed training sessions during the week. Public matches allow fans to get extremely close to the action, with seating arrangements that place them within mere feet of the field. This proximity not only enhances the viewing experience but also creates a unique auditory landscape, allowing fans to absorb the intensity of practice and gameplay.
With attendance rates reaching 25,000 last year, this event has proven its appeal to soccer enthusiasts. For the upcoming event, the invitation allows up to 5,000 fans daily during public matches, providing an intimate context for the sport that is often missing from larger venues.
Featuring a diverse lineup of teams, the CVI reflects the competitive spirit of American soccer. This year, defending MLS Cup champions the LA Galaxy will headline the event, alongside league stalwarts such as the New York Red Bulls and Seattle Sounders. Newly added expansion club San Diego FC adds an element of intrigue, while other teams like Austin FC and Chicago Fire FC further underscore the depth of talent.
The NWSL will also take prominence during the last week of the CVI, showcasing clubs like Portland Thorns FC and Angel City FC. This intersection of two leagues not only heightens the competition but also amplifies awareness for women’s soccer, an essential goal in the ongoing efforts to promote equity in sports.
Launched in its inaugural year of 2022 with just six MLS teams and no fans, the Coachella Valley Invitational has witnessed staggering growth. The move to include NWSL teams last year and raise participant numbers to 20 this year speaks volumes about its evolving nature. The event’s evolution illustrates its acceptance and recognition as a pivotal preseason fixture.
MLS Commissioner Don Garber reflects on the event’s growth, underscoring AEG’s prowess in orchestrating world-class experiences. This level of endorsement by league officials hints at a promising future for the CVI, suggesting that it may evolve into a focal point for global soccer as well.
With plans for continued expansion on the horizon, the Coachella Valley Invitational stands as a testament to the burgeoning popularity of soccer in the United States. As it grows, the event not only enriches the preseason for participating teams but also deepens fan engagement, enhances local economic viability, and contributes to a broader cultural appreciation for the sport. Looking forward, the CVI has the potential to redefine preseason soccer events in America, establishing itself as a key player on the global stage.