Santa Ana’s Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Agency to host 2026 Lay’s World Cup Soccer Tournament

A groundbreaking soccer field built from recycled chip bags is once again bringing the community together-this time for a free teen tournament with a once-in-a-lifetime reward.

The Lay's RePlay Mini Pitch, located at 3311 W. 5^th St., will host a recreation tournament for teens ages 16-18, offering local players the chance to compete, connect, and potentially earn an opportunity to attend a 2026 FIFA World Cup match early summer.

Notably, the Santa Ana is home to the only Lay's RePlay mini pitch in the United States, making this tournament a uniquely special experience for participants. The field itself, constructed using repurposed Lay's potato chip packaging, has become a symbol of innovation and accessibility since its opening. Developed through a partnership between Lay's, the City of Santa Ana, and Common Goal, the space was designed to provide a safe and sustainable environment for youth sports while promoting environmental awareness.

Now, organizers are building on that mission by launching a free tournament aimed at engaging teens in positive recreation. The event will feature competitive matches and a community event day - all centered around the unifying power of soccer.

Participants will compete not only for local recognition, but also for a chance to win an unforgettable experience: attending a FIFA World Cup game. The prize is intended to inspire young community athletes and connect them to the global stage of the sport they love. In addition, the World Cup game excursion will include participants from Portugal and Italy creating a truly unique global experience.

The initiative reflects the broader goals of the Lay's RePlay program, which has developed similar fields around the world using recycled materials. These fields have collectively hosted thousands of games, expanding access to sports in underserved communities while reducing environmental waste. Santa Ana was selected as a key location for the U.S. project due to its strong community identity and passion for soccer. The addition of a free teen tournament further strengthens the city's commitment to youth engagement and equitable access to recreational opportunities.

Tournament will host a women's and men's division matches between April and May. Registration is available until March 31 at https://www.tinyurl.com/SALaysTournament2026. For more information, please contact COSA Athletics at [email protected] or call (714) 571 - 4264.