The proposed men’s friendly between the United States and Germany on June 2 would almost certainly take place at RFK Stadium or FedEx Field, several sources have told the Insider.
The U.S. Soccer Federation is finalizing the match as part of its 100th anniversary celebrations and has focused on the Washington area so it could coincide with the organization’s annual general meeting in the nation’s capital in late May or early June.
RFK is available because D.C. United plays at Chicago that day. The friendly would serve as final preparation for the U.S. team before World Cup qualifiers at Jamaica on June 7 and home against Panama on June 11 and Honduras on June 18.
Both RFK and FedEx can make a strong case to host the game:
RFK PROS
History of staging major soccer events
Short walk from the Metro station
Large enough for a substantial crowd (45,000), but small enough to provide festive atmosphere
Minimal issues with the field conditions
No issues with the field dimensions (110 x 75)
Easy access for those staying in the city for the annual general meeting
Klinsmann scored twice at RFK in the 1993 U.S. Cup as Germany came back from a three-goal deficit in the second half to draw with Brazil, 3-3
RFK CONS
It’s 52 years old — and looks, feels and smells like it
Seating capacity substantially limits ticket revenue
No luxury boxes or amenities for high-end sales and VIPs
Not a proper venue to showcase a major international friendly beamed around the world and possibly drawing soccer dignitaries
RFK raccoon says he has a scheduling conflict
FEDEX PROS
Potential for an enormous crowd/ticket revenue (capacity is 82,000)
Modern facility
Ample private boxes and amenities
Close to the Beltway
Who doesn’t like visiting Raljon?
FEDEX CONS
Too big for a friendly, unless a Latin team is the opponent
Possible higher ticket prices to help offset expenses
Narrow field dimensions (110 x 70)
Notorious parking and traffic problems
Long walk from the Metro station
Kenny Chesney concert a week earlier could impact field conditions
Rumor has it in these parts, groundskeeping is substandard (Artificial turf on the way?)
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