As the FIFA World Cup captivates fans across North America, internationally acclaimed architecture firm gmp · Architekten von Gerkan, Marg und Partner (gmp) will host two exclusive public talks exploring the design, innovation, and fan experience behind some of the world's most celebrated soccer stadiums.

Held on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at the newly opened German House of Soccer pop-up venue in Manhattan's Chelsea neighborhood, the events will feature legendary German soccer player and manager Jürgen Klinsmann, alongside leading stadium architects from gmp, one of the world's foremost designers of sports venues.

Taking place in the Fan Area at Chelsea Industrial, 525 West 28th Street, the programs are scheduled between live FIFA World Cup match screenings and offer visitors a rare behind-the-scenes look at how stadium architecture shapes the game for players, fans, and host cities alike.

A Conversation with Jürgen Klinsmann: Stadiums & Soccer

Tuesday, June 23 | 3:00–3:45 p.m.

Jürgen Klinsmann will join Stephan Schütz, Executive Partner at gmp Architekten, for a conversation examining the relationship between soccer and stadium design. Drawing on decades of experience both on the field and in the design studio, the discussion will explore how stadiums influence player performance, fan engagement, and the global culture of soccer.

Klinsmann's distinguished playing career includes stints with VfB Stuttgart, Inter Milan, AS Monaco, Tottenham Hotspur, and Bayern Munich. He was a member of West Germany's 1990 FIFA World Cup-winning team and Germany's UEFA Euro 1996 championship squad. As manager, he led Germany to a third-place finish at the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

Soccer, Behind the Scenes: A Journey Through World Cup Stadia, Past and Future

Tuesday, June 23 | 6:00–6:45 p.m.

In an immersive multimedia presentation, Martin Glass, Director and Stadiums Specialist at gmp Architekten, will take audiences behind the scenes of world-class soccer venues across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Through photography, video, and architectural insights, attendees will discover how today's leading stadiums are evolving to create richer fan experiences, support urban development, and redefine entertainment destinations. Featured projects include Madrid's iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Olympic venues in China, FIFA World Cup stadiums in South Africa and Brazil, and other landmark projects shaping the future of the sport.

Event Details

Location: German House of Soccer – Fan Area

Chelsea Industrial

525 West 28th Street

New York, NY 10001

Admission: Free with reservation

Refreshments: Complimentary refreshments will be served.

Speakers

• Jürgen Klinsmann – Professional Manager and Legendary German Soccer Player
• Stephan Schütz – Executive Partner, gmp · Architekten von Gerkan, Marg und Partner
• Martin Glass – Director and Stadiums Specialist, gmp · Architekten von Gerkan, Marg und Partner
• Tobias Keyl – Architect and Associate Partner, gmp USA / gmp · Architekten von Gerkan, Marg und Partner
• Rosalind Tsang – Studio Director, gmp USA / gmp · Architekten von Gerkan, Marg und Partner