In a move that highlights the growing international appeal of Winston-Salem, the German Men’s National Soccer Team has selected this city as its headquarters for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. The team, renowned for its four World Cup victories, will be based at Graylyn Estate during their stay in the United States.
Training sessions are set to take place at Wake Forest University’s W. Dennie Spry Soccer Stadium, a mere five-minute drive from their new home base. This proximity played a significant role in the decision-making process, as noted by Craig Zakrzewski, Senior Associate Athletic Director for Projects and Operations. The convenience of having both facilities nearby was a key factor for the German team.
Zakrzewski expressed enthusiasm about the influx of fans expected in the area, driven by the German team’s global following. “It shows that this area has a reputation as somewhere that, you know, is growing and capable of hosting elite, international programs like we’re going to do this summer. And we’re planning for the hundreds of media that are going to travel, and just the number of fans globally that this team has. And they’re going to want to stay near where the team is staying,” he said.
Community engagement is also on the agenda, with plans for events to involve locals and visitors alike. Additional details are anticipated in the coming months as the city prepares to welcome the team and its fans. The World Cup is scheduled from June 11 to July 19, 2026, taking place across various locations in North America.
