Vela and Chicharito to play in Coachella's inaugural pre-season tournament

The LA Galaxy of Mexico's Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez announced today the details of the inaugural tournament that will be played in Indio, California, from February 9-19, in which LA Galaxy II, DC United, LAFC of Carlos Vela, New York Red Bulls and Seattle Sounders FC will also participate. The tournament will be held without access to the fans.

"We are excited to add a new preseason competition that will help grow soccer in an area of Southern California known for entertainment," said LA Galaxy President Chris Klein. "We are grateful to Empire Polo Club, Goldenvoice, and AEG for helping to bring soccer to the Coachella Valley."

The fields of the Empire Polo Club, one of the finest outdoor sporting event facilities, host the famed Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival and the Stagecoach Festival.

"It is important for our team to compete against quality opponents during our preparation leading up to the start of the 2022 MLS campaign," said LA Galaxy Head Coach Greg Vanney. "The Coachella Valley Invitational achieves this goal and we are thrilled to participate in the inaugural edition of this competition."

Tickets for the Galaxy's preseason matches at Dignity Health Sports Park against the New England Revolution on Feb. 5 and D.C. United on Feb. 19, which are included in LA Galaxy season ticket memberships for season ticket holders, are now on sale to the general public. 

In addition, Galaxy will host Toronto FC on Saturday, January 29, and Vancouver Whitecaps FC on Wednesday, February 16 in closed-door preseason matches at Dignity Health Sports Park.