World Cup
California declares state of emergency as massive fire burns near SoFi Stadium ahead of Belgium vs Iran
A major fire burning near Los Angeles has forced California Governor Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency, raising concerns ahead of Wednesday’s World Cup match between Belgium and Iran at SoFi Stadium.
The blaze, which began Wednesday in the Boyle Heights district, has engulfed a 46,000-square-metre refrigeration complex, creating significant challenges for emergency services. Burning insulation and damaged solar panels have hampered firefighting efforts, allowing smoke to spread across parts of the Los Angeles region.
Governor Gavin Newsom declared the state of emergency as the fire’s intensity forced authorities to advise residents in nearby areas to stay indoors with windows and doors sealed. Despite the scale of the incident, officials report the fire is now largely under control, though lingering hotspots continue to complicate containment.
The Belgium national team, preparing for their World Cup fixture against Iran, remains unaffected by the situation. SoFi Stadium, located a safe distance from the affected zone, is expected to host the match without disruption. Organisers have confirmed no impact on supporter access, player travel, or match logistics.
Local media highlight the fire’s proximity to major infrastructure as a key factor in the emergency response, with authorities closely monitoring air quality and public safety in surrounding neighbourhoods.