The Soccer Tournament returns to Cary

The Soccer Tournament returns to Cary today, bringing celebrities and soccer stars in town for six days of high-stakes 7v7 competition.

Why it matters: Three $1 million prizes are on the line.

Zoom in: Matches are being played at WakeMed Soccer Park for the fourth straight year.

• There are 48 men's teams competing, including ones founded by rapper J. Cole's Dreamville Records and Spanish pro Gerard Piqué.
• The 16 women's teams competing include the home team, N.C. Courage, as well as reigning three-time champs, U.S. Women.

The big picture: Last year's tournament had over 51,000 people attend, most of them from outside Wake County, generating around $15 million in direct economic impact, per the town.

• Tournament owners Jon Mugar and Chris Paul agreed to keep it in Cary through 2029, securing $6.8 million in incentives from the state for the commitment.

If you go: Tickets and grounds passes are still being sold.

• Men's play begins today. Women's play begins tomorrow. Mixed groups start Friday.

Check out the full schedule