Los Angeles may share him with Washington these days, but Earvin “Magic” Johnson will forever be Mr. Los Angeles. And with the City of Angels set to host some of the biggest global events in the coming years, it only makes sense that their most iconic figure leads the charge.

With the FIFA World Cup arriving in the U.S. next year, the Lakers legend has been named the Official Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Community Ambassador, announced by the Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission.

“LA is ready to make MAGIC on and off the pitch ⚽️ We are honored to welcome one of the most influential leaders in sports and business,@magicjohnson, as an Official Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Community Ambassador!”

The news dropped on Instagram, featuring Magic sporting a familiar pastel orange and blue FIFA scarf- the same one Snoop Dogg wore just weeks ago when he was unveiled as the Community Chairman for LA’s World Cup efforts.

It’s a fitting connection. Snoop’s deepening ties to the sports world- from opening the Paris Olympics to owning a soccer team- have long been inspired by his friend Magic, whose influence on and off the court continues to unite Los Angeles in every arena.

“Magic’s commitment to community, excellence, and global impact will help the Host Committee ensure FIFA World Cup 26™ leaves a lasting legacy in Los Angeles—while inspiring fans and welcoming the world for this once-in-a-generation event.”

Although we’re missing an official Magic Johnson social media essay, he did respond to the honor in a statement. He stated he was, “honored to serve as an official community ambassador for the Los Angeles World Cup 2026.” 

He added, “I’ve lived in Los Angeles for over four decades and have seen how the power of sports can inspire, uplift, and unite people from all walks of life. I’m committed to supporting the host committee’s efforts to leave a lasting legacy throughout the tournament, ensuring Los Angeles shines on the world stage.”

Magic now officially joins a star-studded host committee that includes Snoop Dogg and Eva Longoria. As a co-owner of LAFC in the MLS and Washington Spirit in the NWSL, this opportunity comes full circle.

Magic Johnson will show LA how it’s done

This isn’t just a catchy headline. In 2026, Los Angeles will welcome thousands of passionate soccer fans for more than a month, and the city will need a true representative of its culture.To give some context, soccer takes up 27% of the national sports fan base.

According to credible research on the U.S. sports landscape, there are around 83 million soccer fans across the country. That means 83 million eyes will be focused on LA during the sport’s biggest event of the year.

Soccer is a massive marketing opportunity that has drawn Magic and Snoop Dogg into the business. And Magic could soon win a NWSL chip throught the Spirit amid some drama at Sparks. An average soccer fan spends more on merchandse and tickets than on any other sport – a data-backed study confirmed. That’s why the LA commission is creative a major star-powered fan experience.

The SoFi Stadium will host fans for 39 days of fan events and experiences across the region for the world cup. Stars like Johnson, Snoop and Longoria help engage the local community as hosts for thousands of football fans.

The tournament will feature 48 teams from the US, Canada, and Mexico. The same report claimed that US fans buy tickets to watch these teams play at least once a season.

It also sets the tone for the upcoming 2026 NBA All-Star Game and the 2028, Olympics and Paralympics all hosted by Angelites.

It comes a day after Magic was selected as Grand Marshal for the Rose Parade that will take place in Pasadena a little farther from LA for the 2026 New Year. It just proves, when you think Los Angeles, you think Magic Johnson.