LOS ANGELES — As the World Cup propels excitement and international attention onto Inglewood, the city has secured a significant legal victory that may influence California property-rights law far beyond the buzz of the global soccer festivities. The city, host to the SoFi Stadium where the U.S. team plays Turkey in their final group-stage match today, has successfully defended a contentious deal with digital billboard company WOW Media.

The dispute centered around Hollywood Park, a colossal mixed-use development incorporating the $5 billion SoFi Stadium, which had filed lawsuits against Inglewood. The development, steered by billionaire Stan Kroenke, who also owns the Los Angeles Rams, contended that Inglewood's agreement with WOW Media diverted revenue from its property. Furthermore, Hollywood Park demanded roughly $400 million from the city, asserting entitlement to funds for public infrastructure improvements, based on achieving certain tax revenue benchmarks.

However, Inglewood countered that the development agreement Hollywood Park relied on was unenforceable, having been established through a voter initiative rather than by a legislative body—a more typical procedure. A Los Angeles Superior Court judge has now affirmed the legality of Inglewood's agreement with WOW Media, marking a crucial win for the city.

Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts, in an interview with POLITICO, emphasized the ongoing positive relationship with Hollywood Park despite the legal confrontations. "There is no animosity between us," Mayor Butts remarked, highlighting the city's focus on the World Cup and community benefits rather than the courtroom drama.

The legal victory comes as SoFi Stadium draws praise globally, serving as a prime venue for the World Cup and set to co-host the 2028 Summer Olympics. The stadium has been lauded by both fans and athletes, enhancing Inglewood's profile on the international stage.

Despite the court's decision, a Hollywood Park spokesperson expressed disagreement and indicated plans to appeal. "We continue to believe that leasing public rights-of-way in this manner is inconsistent with state and municipal law," the spokesperson stated, reaffirming Hollywood Park's commitment to Inglewood's prosperity.

WOW Media's CEO, Scott Krantz, expressed satisfaction with the court’s "decisive ruling," which he said would ensure "significant, ongoing revenue" for Inglewood. This partnership, according to Krantz, is set to strengthen further in the coming years.

Mayor Butts described the dispute as a typical business disagreement and stressed Inglewood's autonomy. "The right to self-determination is important," he said, underscoring his primary focus on public safety, quality of life, and effective management of city services during the World Cup events.

This legal resolution might set a precedent for similar disputes in California, reinforcing the ability of cities to manage and monetize their public spaces effectively, even in the face of challenges from powerful stakeholders.