Algeria’s men’s national team is preparing to leave its World Cup base camp in Lawrence before its Round of 32 match against Switzerland in Vancouver, bringing an extended stay in northeast Kansas to an end.
The partnership—spread across nearly 5,000 miles—formed after FIFA selected Lawrence as the team’s base. From the team’s arrival through Algeria’s advancement to the knockout stage, community members and supporters turned the stay into a shared local story. Residents lined streets and took part in community events and watch parties, joined open training sessions, and welcomed the “Desert Foxes.”
Algerian fans and officials also marked their appreciation. Supporters displayed a “Thank you, Lawrence” banner during Algeria’s 3-3 draw with Austria at Arrowhead Stadium. The U.S. Embassy in Algeria and the Algerian Embassy in the United States both expressed gratitude to Lawrence residents and officials, and credited local support from police, the Sheriff’s Office, and the fire department.
Explore Lawrence officials said they do not expect the team to return to its Lawrence base camp if Algeria advances, though a quarterfinal in Kansas City is possible on July 11.