World Cup stadium workers vote to strike over wages

Workers at SoFi Stadium, a key venue for the upcoming World Cup, have voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike over demands for improved wages and working conditions. The vote, with 96% of members from UNITE HERE Local 11 backing the action, occurred just one week before the stadium is scheduled to host its first World Cup match.

The potential labor action stems from stalled negotiations between the union, which represents about 2,000 food service workers at the stadium, and the contractor Legends Global. The union's members include cooks, dishwashers, and catering staff. Talks are expected to resume next Monday.

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Workers at the SoFi Stadium near Los Angeles have voted to authorize a strike to demand better wages.

SoFi Stadium, also home to the NFL's Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers, is slated to host eight matches during the World Cup. The U.S. national team's opening match against Paraguay is scheduled for June 12, with tickets reportedly starting at $2,000. Another match on June 15 will feature Iran against New Zealand.

Legends Global has not yet issued an immediate comment on the strike authorization vote. The looming threat of a strike highlights the ongoing labor tensions surrounding major sporting events, even as the host city prepares for a global audience.

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The strike vote was supported by 96% of the members working at the stadium.