Rapids to host MLS champs Inter Miami at Empower Field

Why it matters: It's the Rapids' first MLS regular-season game in Colorado's biggest stadium in nearly two decades — a rare chance to put the club in front of a much larger audience.

• The matchup also aligns with the anniversary of the Rapids' first home game at the former Mile High Stadium, a 3–1 victory on April 21, 1996 over the then-Dallas Burn.

Between the lines: 2026 is shaping up to be a milestone year for local soccer fans, as Summit FC is set to play its inaugural season and the U.S. co-hosts the FIFA World Cup (a tournament Denver unsuccessfully bid to host).

The intrigue: The club plans on providing free tickets to community members in Commerce City, its home stadium's location, Rapids' chief business officer Haley Durmer tells us.

• "We're doing this for the fans," she adds.

Flashback: The Rapids last played at Empower Field on Oct. 7, 2006, drawing 1-1 with the New York Red Bulls.

What's next: Remaining lower-level or single-game tickets are expected to go on sale Jan. 15, with the club asking fans to sign up to RapidFire emails for notifications.

• Durmer says the club anticipates a sellout.