SoFi Stadium Workers Prepare for Possible Strike Ahead of World Cup

As the U.S. men’s national soccer team gears up for its opening World Cup match, workers at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, have taken a significant step by voting to authorize a strike. The decision was announced in a statement from the union, Unite Here Local 11, on June 5, just one week before the highly anticipated game.

Representing approximately 2,000 employees at the stadium, the union reported that an overwhelming 96% of members voted in favor of the strike authorization. This group includes a variety of roles such as cashiers, cooks, bartenders, and food attendants. The union indicated that workers could walk off the job "at any moment" if their demands are not satisfactorily addressed.

Kurt Peterson, co-president of Unite Here Local 11, expressed concern about the situation, stating, “It could get ugly, yes.” This vote comes in the wake of stalled negotiations between the union and Legends Global, the stadium’s operating company. Further discussions are set to take place on June 8, just four days ahead of the U.S. match against Paraguay.

Legends Global released a statement prior to the vote, emphasizing their long-standing partnership with Unite Here Local 11 and their commitment to reaching a fair agreement through sincere negotiations. The company expressed eagerness to provide an exceptional experience for fans attending the World Cup events.

Key issues at the heart of the negotiations include concerns over FIFA's request for sensitive employee information for background checks and the union's demands for wage increases above $30 an hour. Additionally, the union seeks to prevent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from operating within the stadium premises.