18,701 spectators attend 2026 U.S. Nationals; 2026 Pan Pacifics draw 13,439 in Irvine

USA Swimming announced spectator totals for two major 2026 meets at the William Woollett Jr. Aquatics Center in Irvine, California. The 2026 U.S. National Championships drew 18,701 spectators and 809 swimmers. The 2026 Pan Pacific Championships attracted 13,439 spectators and 275 registered swimmers. The two events are held two weeks apart in late July and mid-August, in the middle of the 2028 Olympic cycle. Irvine hosted the Pan Pacific Championships in 2026, and USA Swimming’s return highlights stable venue planning rather than new infrastructure costs. By comparison, the 2026 U.S. Olympic Trials in Indianapolis attracted more than 285,000 spectators. Lower attendance at mid-cycle meets is normal because Olympic Trials carry higher stakes for roster selection. Still, the 2026 figures provide useful signals for ticketing, promotion and venue capacity planning. Daily averages and seat occupancy rates will be more important than headline totals for measuring fan interest in the lead-up to the 2028 Olympics.