In an exciting announcement on Sunday afternoon, FIFA declared Philadelphia as a key host city for the FIFA World Cup 2026, promising a thrilling lineup of six matches that will captivate soccer enthusiasts. The City of Brotherly Love will take center stage, culminating in a Round of 16 clash on none other than Independence Day, July 4th.
The journey for Philadelphia kicks off with five gripping group stage matches, commencing with Match No. 9 on Sunday, June 14th, and building momentum with Match No. 29 on Friday, June 19th. The soccer fever continues over the weekend with a match on Monday, June 22nd, followed by the final group stage showdowns on Thursday, June 25th and Saturday, June 27th. The crescendo arrives on Saturday, July 4th, as Philadelphia hosts a Round of 16 match on the United States’ 250th birthday.
Azteca Stadium in Mexico City will set the stage for the tournament’s opening match on June 11th, featuring Mexico’s inaugural group stage showdown. The United States Men’s National Team embarks on their 2026 journey in Los Angeles on June 12th, with subsequent group stage clashes in Seattle and a return to LA for the grand finale. Meanwhile, Toronto will witness Canada’s historic first FIFA World Cup game on June 12th.
The locations for the 104 games of the tournament were unveiled on June 16, 2022, with Philadelphia earning its spot as one of the 11 Host City destinations in the United States. The robust bid, championed by Philadelphia Soccer 2026 and its dedicated partners over the past five years, resonated with FIFA. The prestigious Host City status was bestowed upon Philadelphia, joining the ranks of esteemed U.S. cities: Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, San Francisco Bay Area, and Seattle. Canada and Mexico will also share the hosting duties, with matches held in Toronto, Vancouver, Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Monterrey.
For further details on Philadelphia’s role as a FIFA World Cup 2026™ Host City, enthusiasts can explore www.philadelphia2026.com.
As Philadelphia prepares to welcome the world in 2026, the announcement of hosting six exhilarating matches amplifies the city’s rich sporting heritage. Soccer aficionados can anticipate a spectacular showcase of skill, passion, and international camaraderie against the backdrop of Philadelphia’s iconic landmarks. The City of Brotherly Love is poised to make its mark on the global stage, ensuring that the FIFA World Cup 2026 becomes an unforgettable chapter in the city’s illustrious sports history.