Philadelphia Shines in Opening Week of FIFA World Cup 2026
June 17, 2026 · Carlos Ruiz
Philadelphia celebrates a successful opening week of the FIFA World Cup 2026, with high attendance at matches and fan festivals, showcasing the city's hospitality and preparations.
PHILADELPHIA — As FIFA World Cup 2026™ enters its second week, Philadelphia has made a memorable impression, having successfully hosted its first match and welcoming tens of thousands of football fans from across the globe. The city's enthusiasm was palpable as 68,274 fans packed Philadelphia Stadium for the inaugural match on June 14, while an impressive 100,000 attendees joined the festivities at the FIFA Fan Festival™ Philadelphia at Lemon Hill over its first four days. The vibrant atmosphere was further amplified by the city's annual ODUNDE Festival, offering a rich tapestry of cultural celebrations. Mayor Cherelle L. Parker highlighted the extensive preparations Philadelphia underwent to ensure a smooth and welcoming experience for visitors. "Philadelphia has spent years preparing for this moment, and over the past week we have seen the best of our city on display," she stated, praising the collaboration of city workers and volunteers in providing hospitality and safety. The city’s transportation systems were put to the test, with Philadelphia International Airport handling over 438,000 passengers between June 11 and June 15. SEPTA's B Line reported significant usage, with 18,806 passengers boarding at NRG Station after the first match, surpassing average numbers seen during Philadelphia Eagles games. The Indego bike share program saw a remarkable 32% increase in ridership compared to last year, with over 25,000 rides in just four days. This surge in activity was supported by enhanced infrastructure, including the addition of 99 temporary bike docks near festival venues. Looking ahead, Philadelphia anticipates a continued influx of visitors as the World Cup progresses, with more matches scheduled, and the start of the Wawa Welcome America festival, promising 16 days of free events leading up to Independence Day. The city is prepared to maintain its momentum and showcase its renowned hospitality to the world.
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