FIFA 2026 World Cup: A-Listers turn out in force for blockbuster USA Australia clash

It was the biggest show in town as celebrities packed the stands in Seattle for Australia's FIFA World Cup group match against the United States on Thursday morning.

Headshot of Jake Santa Maria
Jake Santa Maria
The Nightly
The Socceroos suffer their first defeat at the FIFA World Cup, losing 2-0 to co-hosts the United States in Seattle after a disappointing first half that included a Cam Burgess own goal and a second US goal right before half-time.

It was the biggest show in town as celebrities packed the stands in Seattle for Australia’s FIFA World Cup group match against the United States on Thursday morning.

While prices for tournament tickets have soared, there were no problems filling the stands at Seattle Stadium with more than 66,000 fans, creating a coliseum-like atmosphere.

Among them was a smattering of celebrities, including Paris Hilton, who was spotted on the ground pre-game wearing a custom jersey sporting her name.

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Paris Hilton attends the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group D match.
Paris Hilton attends the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group D match. Credit: Emilee Chinn/Getty Images

The Socceroos were not the only Australian sports stars in the venue, with golfing great Greg Norman posting a photo from his view in the stands.

Plenty of the Seattle Seahawks NFL team were also in attendance at what is usually their home ground at Lumen Field, with ex-star running back Marshawn Lynch among them.

American singer Ciara was in attendance to deliver the commemorative coin for the pre-match toss, accompanied by her husband and former Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson.

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New York Giants quarterback Jameis Winston added to the line-up of NFL stars

Several members of the dominant US women’s national team were also in attendance, while Sacramento Kings star Zach LaVine also made the trip.

US President Donald Trump did not attend the match, with Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy given a very brief appearance on the big screen while Australia’s new ambassador to the United States Greg Moriarty, was also spotted in the boxes.

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