The Coachella Valley Invitational (CVI) is quickly establishing itself as a central fixture in the preseason calendar for soccer in the United States. Set in the picturesque Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, this sprawling 1,000-acre property is not only an iconic venue for soccer but also hosts the renowned Coachella and Stagecoach music festivals in April. The CVI, taking place this year from February 1-22, has significantly expanded since its inception, now seeing participation from nearly half of Major League Soccer (MLS) and the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) teams.
What began in 2022 as a modest gathering of six MLS teams without fan attendance has evolved rapidly. The growth trajectory is remarkable; over the past two seasons, the event has swelled to include 12 and then 14 teams. This year, with 20 professional teams—12 from MLS and numerous NWSL clubs—set to compete, the invitation grows increasingly significant. Kara Korber, AEG’s senior director of business development, cites the potential for even greater participation, contingent upon infrastructure enhancements, underscoring the enthusiasm around the CVI.
A critical element of the CVI’s draw is its dual-purpose setup. Each participating team is allocated two practice fields, ensuring ample time for preparation and strategic experimentation without the pressures of a live audience. This allows coaching staff to refine tactics and assess player performance in varied scenarios. The setup emphasizes a unique aspect of the event, blending professional competition with intimate fan experiences.
One of the CVI’s standout features is its approach to fan engagement. Unlike traditional events where spectators are often distanced from the action, the CVI promotes an intimate atmosphere. With spectators positioned just 10-15 feet from the sidelines, fans gain an unprecedented look into the nuances of professional soccer—from player communications to game dynamics. This interaction has the potential not only to enhance the spectator experience but also to cultivate a deeper connection between fans and teams.
Previous installments of the CVI have drawn impressive crowds, with 25,000 attendees reported last year and a capacity of about 5,000 for each of the public match days. The tournament’s format includes a minimum of two matches per team available for fans, alongside opportunities for closed-door matches to test alternative strategies. This flexibility is crucial for teams, especially in the crucial preseason phase where experimentation is key.
The allure of the CVI is amplified by its star-studded line-up. Defending MLS champions LA Galaxy return to headline the event, further enhancing its prestige. Competing alongside them are formidable opponents such as the New York Red Bulls and Seattle Sounders, promising competitive match-ups that will attract soccer aficionados and casual fans alike.
Moreover, the inclusion of expansion club San Diego FC and established NWSL clubs such as Portland Thorns FC and Angel City FC highlights the Invitational’s commitment to featuring top-tier talent from both leagues, thereby encompassing a wider spectrum of soccer culture. Such representation not only fosters regional rivalries but also promotes a sense of unity in the growing American soccer landscape.
In a landscape where other major American sports leagues boast established preseason events—such as MLB’s spring training and the NFL’s preseason games—the CVI fills a notable void for soccer. MLS Commissioner Don Garber has recognized the event’s rising stature, noting its evolution into a premier preseason occasion on the global soccer stage. This acknowledgment underscores the professional community’s support for the CVI, and the potential for further growth and expansion as it solidifies itself as a cornerstone event for upcoming seasons.
As the Coachella Valley Invitational prepares to kick off another year of exciting soccer, it promises not only thrilling matches but also a stepping stone for future generations of players and fans alike. In essence, the CVI is not just a series of games but a celebration of soccer’s expanding footprint in America.