ROGERS, Ark. — Ozark United FC, in conjunction with Ozarks Coca-Cola and FOX 24, has been approved by FIFA to host two free community watch parties this summer as part of Global Game Fest, a series of events designed to bring Northwest Arkansas residents together during FIFA World Cup 2026™.
The FIFA-approved events will feature live broadcasts on a large outdoor screen of the U.S. Men’s National Team’s opening match against Paraguay and the tournament final, along with food vendors, music, family activities and opportunities for fans of all ages to play soccer.
The first event will take place June 12 at Upper Ramble Park in Fayetteville. A second event is planned for July 19 in Benton County during the FIFA World Cup Final. Additional details for the July event will be announced at a later date.
“The World Cup is one of the few sporting events that truly belongs to the whole world,” said Chris Martinovic, co-founder of Ozark United FC. “For generations, fans have gathered in parks, plazas, pubs and public spaces to watch together. These events are a way for Northwest Arkansas to take part in that tradition and celebrate the game as a community.”
Global Game Fest: USA vs. Paraguay
Friday, June 12, 2026
Upper Ramble Park
251 N. West Ave., Fayetteville, AR 72701
6 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. CT
Match kickoff: 8 p.m. CT
Global Game Fest: 2026 FIFA World Cup Final
Sunday, July 19, 2026
Benton County, location to be updated in the coming weeks
12 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. CT
Match kickoff: 2 p.m. CT
“Anytime we bring people together, something special happens. Watch parties are part of soccer culture, and they will be part of the matchday culture we are building here,” said Wes Harris, managing director of Ozark United FC. “When Ozark United FC takes the pitch, gathering to watch soccer should feel natural in Northwest Arkansas. Global Game Fest is an early look at the kind of community this club is working to create.”
Ozark United FC also plans to support additional pop-up watch parties during the U.S. Men’s National Team’s group-stage matches. The United States will play Australia on Friday, June 19, and Türkiye on Thursday, June 25. Locations and event details will be announced on Ozark United FC social media channels as the tournament progresses.
Additional event details and programming announcements will be shared on Ozark United FC social media channels.
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ABOUT OZARK UNITED FC:
Ozark United FC was co-founded by Chris Martinovic and Warren Smith with a mission to bring professional soccer to Northwest Arkansas. The organization is committed to leveraging soccer as a force for good and aims to foster a strong sense of community in the region. Ozark United FC intends to bring a USL Championship Men’s team and a USL Super League Women’s team to Northwest Arkansas. For more information, visit www.ozarkunited.com.
Media Contact:
Andrea Ritchie
479.461.7696
AM Group