Kick off the FIFA World Cup in style with matches broadcast live at The Drive

The FIFA World Cup 2026™ may be half a world away, but South Australians will be able to feel like they are amongst the action, with Centre Court at The Drive to host a Live Site, and the State Government supporting licensed venues looking to capitalise on the event.

Matches will be broadcast on a big screen and undercover, direct from North America, giving local fans a chance to unite and cheer on the CommBank Socceroos in their three group matches.

If Australia are successful in their World Cup journey, fans will continue to have the opportunity to cheer on the national team together, with details to be shared closer to the matches if required.

On Sunday 14 June, Australia meets Türkiye, in Vancouver. The Drive gates will open at 12.30pm for a 1.30pm kick-off.

On Saturday 20 June, Australia faces the USA, in Seattle. The Drive will activate in the early hours, with gates open at 4am ahead of the game starting at 4.30am.

On Friday 26 June, Australia clashes with Paraguay, in San Francisco. The Drive will open from 10.30am with the game starting at 11.30am.

No matter what time fans are on site, the party atmosphere will be in full swing, with live DJs and MCs, plus food and drinks available for purchase.

Licensed venues are being given vital support, with South Australia’s liquor and gambling regulator offering a reduction in application fees for venues needing short-term licences to open outside their regular hours.

To support venues wishing to open for specific matches, Consumer and Business Services will be prioritising short-term licence applications during matches that could be scheduled from SA’s morning to lunch time.

Application fees are also being cut, with venues only paying a one-off application fee, instead of paying for each individual application.

Venues wishing to find out more can contact Liquor Licensing on 131-882.

South Australians have a history of coming out in droves to back the nation’s soccer teams. During the FIFA Women’s World Cup™ in 2023 more than 87,000 fans packed into the city’s fan sites across the month-long tournament, with even more packing hospitality venues around the state.

Tourism Minister Emily Bourke said, “Nothing beats watching the best in the world go head-to-head with your mates, so the vibe at the Live Site at The Drive is going to be electric.”

“Hosting the live site at The Drive means fans can cheer on the CommBank Socceroos together, then head over the bridge into the city for a breakfast, lunch or dinner.”

“Let’s get behind our CommBank Socceroos stars and make sure they can hear the roar of the South Aussie crowd from the other side of the world. “

Consumer Affairs Minister Michael Brown added, “The world game brings people together like nothing else, and we’re making it easier for South Australian football fans to gather in person, and share their love of the sport.”

“By slashing application fees and fast-tracking approvals, we are empowering licensed venues to easily capitalise on the world cup.”

“We want local venues to confidently throw their doors open, and create the perfect atmosphere for fans to unite, cheer on the Socceroos and watch the world's best compete.”