Guide to Washington Spirit Soccer in DC

© Washington Spirit

When and where do the Washington Spirit play?

The Washington Spirit play their NWSL home matches at Audi Field (100 Potomac Ave SW). The 20,000-seat stadium anchors the neighborhood of Buzzard Point, near Southwest DC. Within walking distance of staples like Nationals Park and The Wharf, it's easy to plan a full day around a match.

Check the full Spirit schedule. Home matches are typically March – Nov. with varying kickoff times.

© Washington Spirit

What makes the Washington Spirit's fan culture stand out?

They call it "Rowdy Audi" for a reason! The Spirit fanbase welcomes all fans with open arms, known for its family-friendly atmosphere, community-forward programming and the club's enthusiastic supporter groups, who keep the energy high from opening to final whistle.

For the full experience, get a seat near the Spirit Squadron (Sections 136 and 137) to be fully immersed in the chants, drums and banner displays throughout the match. Families can also join the DC SCORES Young Supporters in Section 138, who even get to select their own Player of the Match.

© Washington Spirit

Which Washington Spirit players should I know?

The Spirit's international roster touts established champions and emerging talent. Start with these fan favorites, then explore the club's full roster.

• Trinity Rodman: The dynamic forward has been a Spirit cornerstone since beginning her professional career with the club in 2021. Known for her speed, creativity and one-on-one skill, the U.S. international star is under contract with the Spirit through 2028.

• Leicy Santos: The Colombian star brings vision, technical skill and international experience to the Spirit midfield.

• Aubrey Kingsbury: The longtime Spirit goalkeeper and club leader helped Washington capture its first NWSL championship in 2021.

• Andi Sullivan: The composed midfielder has been central to the Spirit's identity and brings championship experience to the squad.

• Tara Rudd: The versatile defender has developed into a standout presence for both the Spirit and the USWNT.

• Hal Hershfelt: A 2024 draft pick, midfielder Hershfelt's jersey ranked among the NWSL's top three best-sellers in 2026.

• Esme Morgan: An English international defender who came to DC from Manchester City, Morgan is a two-time Women's Euro champion and a fan favorite at Audi Field.

• Sofia Cantore: The first Italian player in NWSL history, Cantore joined from Juventus and brings a decade of top European experience to the attack.

Off the field, majority owner Michele Kang has become one of the most influential figures in women's soccer, investing heavily in the club's facilities and player resources. Kang and Rodman were both named to TIME's inaugural TIME100 Sports list, a nod to the Spirit's rising national profile.

© Washington Spirit

What's the pre-game scene like at Audi Field?

Fans are encouraged to arrive early (up to two hours in advance) to take in the Spirit's culture and pre-game programming:

• Spirit Stage (Gate A): Live bands, singers and local performers 

• Spiritville (East Concourse between Gates A and B): A dedicated fan zone includes face painting, poster-making, yard games and activities for all ages

• March to the Match: The Spirit Squadron and other supporters gather before the match to march through Navy Yard and into the stadium together, chanting and waving flags as they go.

Meeting times and locations are announced weekly, so check the club's social channels before you arrive.

Just over the Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge, fans often gather along Potomac Avenue SE in Navy Yard. Solace Outpost and Suzie Q's sit side by side at 71 Potomac Ave SE, with The Salt Line just next door. All three are an easy walk from the stadium and get packed on matchdays, so plan extra time if you're grabbing a bite beforehand.

Pro tip: Check out the chants ahead of time!

The Spirit Squadron leads a lineup of chants to rally fans together throughout play and at key moments of the match. A fan favorite is the "scarves-up" anthem you'll hear at the final whistle. Fans can preview the chants, including audio clips, on the official Matchday Guide. Study up to feel like a regular on your first visit.

© Washington Spirit

How do I get to Audi Field?

Audi Field is one of the most transit-friendly stadiums in DC. Parking is limited. 

• Metro: The stadium is a short walk from both the Navy Yard-Ballpark and Waterfront Metrorail stations on the Green Line. An ADA shuttle also runs a continuous loop from the Navy Yard West entrance to the stadium starting an hour before gates open.

• Water taxi: City Cruises runs a matchday water taxi from Old Town Alexandria to the Diamond Teague Dock in Navy Yard, about a 45-minute ride each way.

• Bike: A free bike valet operates at 2nd and T Streets SW, with additional bike, e-scooter and Capital Bikeshare access around the stadium.

• Rideshare: Due to traffic restrictions near the stadium, Uber and Lyft pickups and drop-offs are directed to the area near Nationals Park, a 5-10-minute walk away.

• Parking: Audi Field doesn't have a dedicated lot, but fans can reserve nearby street and lot parking in advance through SpotHero or at nearby James Creek Marina.
   
   

© Washington Spirit

Where can I find Washington Spirit merch?

On gameday, fans can choose from four in-stadium Spirit Shop locations: Spiritville, the south endline, Events DC Club, and behind Section 130. With the purchase of a ticket, fans can also order online and pick it up their gear when they arrive. Otherwise, all merch – from signature scarves and tees to official jerseys – is available online. 

What should I know about mobile tickets?

Audi Field is a mobile-ticket-only venue for Spirit matches.

• Download your ticket to your Apple Wallet or Google Pay Wallet before you arrive (paper printouts and screenshots won't work at the gate)

• Single-game buyers should log into their Ticketmaster account, whereas season Members and group tickets are accessed through the Washington Spirit Account Manager

• No smartphone? Head to the Audi Field Box Office with a valid photo ID on matchday
  
   

© Washington Spirit

What can I bring into Audi Field?

Audi Field has a strict bag and prohibited-items policy, so it's worth planning ahead to avoid delays at the gate.

• Bags are limited to 14" x 14" x 6", so no backpacks, coolers or luggage. Small cinch bags that meet the size limit are allowed.

• Water bottles of any kind (empty, reusable or sealed) are not permitted, except during an official Heat Advisory. Free water refill stations are available throughout the stadium.

• Non-compliant bags can be checked at outdoor Binbox Lockers for $12.

• One-piece foam seat cushions (no covers, armrests or metal backs, max 16" wide) and blankets are both allowed.

• Fans with medical needs or diaper bags that don't fit the size policy should email Audi Field's Guest Experience team before matchday to arrange accommodations.

© Washington Spirit

What food and drink options are available at Audi Field?

Concessions at Audi Field are run by Levy Restaurants, with several stands inspired by Chef José Andrés and ThinkFoodGroup. Offerings vary somewhat by match, but you'll typically find:

• DC classics like half-smokes, plus stadium staples like nachos and soft pretzels

• International options including pupusas, arepas and chicharrón

• Vegetarian and vegan picks, including pizza and pupusas

• Local beer, wine and Capital Cocktails at bars throughout the concourse

Outside food and beverages, including sealed water bottles, aren't permitted inside the stadium.

© Washington Spirit

Is Audi Field accessible for all fans?

Audi Field offers a range of accessibility accommodations for Spirit matches:

• Accessible seating is available throughout the stadium and can be booked via the accessibility filter on Ticketmaster or arranged at the Guest Services booth inside Gate A.

• A free ADA shuttle runs from 55 M Street SE to the stadium for fans with disabilities or mobility challenges starting two hours before kickoff.

• A KultureCity sensory room on the Heineken Rooftop offers a calm space away from crowd noise and lights, along with sensory bags available at Guest Services.

• A nursing pod is located just inside Gate A near the stroller check-in.

Fans with specific needs are encouraged to contact Audi Field's Guest Experience team at least three days before matchday.

© Washington Spirit

What happens after the match?

Fans aren't permitted onto the field without credentials, but general ticket holders can head to Sections 135–138 for a closer view as players wrap up and salute the supporters. Keep in mind that players often have mandatory media and recovery commitments, so post-match appearances aren't guaranteed.

What if I can't make it to Audi Field? Where can I watch Spirit games?

The Spirit's official Bar Network partners with bars across the Washington, DC area to host watch parties for every game. Partner bars have included spots like metrobar, Dacha and Bluejacket, with additional partners in Md. and Va. Because it can change game-to-game, check the official page for participating locations ahead of each match.

© Washington Spirit

FAQs

Do I need a physical ticket to get into Audi Field?
No, Spirit matches are mobile-ticket-only. Download your ticket to your phone's wallet app before you arrive.

Can I bring a bag into the stadium?
Small bags up to 14" x 14" x 6" are allowed. Backpacks, coolers and luggage are not.

Can I bring a water bottle?
No, unless DC has issued a Heat Advisory, in which case one sealed 20 oz. bottle per person is permitted.

Is Audi Field family-friendly?
Yes. Strollers are welcome throughout the concourse and Spiritville offers activities designed for kids before kickoff.

What's the easiest way to get to a Spirit match without driving?
Metro to the Navy Yard-Ballpark or Waterfront stations on the Green Line. It's a short walk to the stadium from there.

Where do the loudest fans sit?
Sections 136–138, home to the Spirit Squadron and the DC SCORES Young Supporters.