FIFA World Cup 2026™ in Philadelphia
May 30, 2023
In the summer of 2022, FIFA selected Philadelphia as one of the 11 Host Cities in the United States to host World Cup™ matches in 2026. Now all eyes are on Philadelphia as the city prepares to bring the world’s largest sporting event to the country’s most passionate fanbase.
After a robust and compelling bid put forth by all the Philadelphia partners over the past five years, FIFA awarded Host City status to Philadelphia and the following U.S. cities: Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, San Francisco Bay Area and Seattle. FIFA also awarded Host City status to five cities in Canada and Mexico. Matches in Canada will be played in Toronto and Vancouver, while matches in Mexico will be played in Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Monterrey.
Daniel J. Hilferty, Chair, Philadelphia Soccer 2026, addresses an enthusiastic crowd at LOVE Park after the announcement that Philadelphia was officially chosen as a FIFA World Cup 2026™ Host City. Photo by J. Ryan for PHLCVB.
Philadelphia has hosted many successful events in the past, including both the Republican and Democratic National Conventions, the NFL Draft, and the Papal Visit. But the 2026 FIFA World Cup™ will be a once in a generation event to experience. Truly the biggest sporting event in the world, 48 countries will compete in 104 matches over six weeks across North America.
A crowd celebrated in LOVE Park after the official announcement on June 16, 2022. Photo by J. Ryan for PHLCVB.
Meg Kane of Philadelphia Soccer 2026 expects as many as 500,000 international fans to travel to Philadelphia over the 40 days of the event, enjoying all that the city has to offer. PHL Sports, the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau’s sports division, will continue to partner with Philadelphia Soccer 2026 and all of our local partners to host the World Cup™. Facilitators of major sporting events such as the NFL Draft, WrestleMania 40, Army-Navy Game, and multiple NCAA championships, PHL Sports works to ensure a seamless event for organizers and fans alike.
Philadelphia band Snacktime helped pump up the crowd at the Pep Rally in LOVE Park on June 16, 2022. Photo by J. Ryan for PHLCVB.
With massive economic impact and electric engagement from fans, the World Cup will showcase Philadelphia as a world-class city rooted in history, passion, and cultural significance. For additional information regarding Philadelphia as a FIFA World Cup 2026™ Host City, visit www.philadelphia2026.com.
Follow @discoverPHL on Twitter to keep up with event details and ticketing information.
