For Immediate Release
Philadelphia (Jan 28, 2026)Click here for additional quotes from Host City Supporter leaders.
Philadelphia Soccer 2026, the 501c3 non-profit organization that serves as the Local Host Committee charged with planning and executing FIFA World Cup 2026™ in coordination with the City of Philadelphia, today announced eight Host City Supporters. As leaders in Pennsylvania’s business and civic ecosystem, these organizations will play a vital role in ensuring the success of the tournament while creating a powerful and lasting legacy of this generational event for the City of Philadelphia and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
FIFA World Cup 26 Philadelphia™ Host City Supporters include:
- Cencora
- Comcast Corporation
- Independence Blue Cross
- PECO
- Penn Medicine
- Philadelphia Eagles
- Visit PA
- William Penn Foundation
“From the start of our bid for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in 2017, our regional and statewide business community has displayed an unwavering support that set Philadelphia apart from other competing cities,” said Daniel J. Hilferty, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Comcast Spectacor and Co-Chair of Philadelphia Soccer 2026. “This tournament represents an extraordinary economic opportunity, and we are both proud and grateful that these organizations have answered the call to help us deliver a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We look forward to working alongside Cencora, Comcast Corporation, Independence Blue Cross, Visit PA, PECO, Penn Medicine, the Philadelphia Eagles, and William Penn Foundation to make history together this year.”
Through their investment and partnership, these Host City Supporters will help Philadelphia Soccer 2026 provide a world-class tournament for residents and visitors alike, while advancing community-driven legacy initiatives, including the revitalization of East Fairmount Park’s Lemon Hill, the site of Philadelphia’s FIFA Fan Festival™, and a collaboration with the U.S. Soccer Foundation to activate 26 soccer-focused projects across the Commonwealth, expanding access to the game and its lifelong values.
“Pennsylvania is excited to welcome fans from all over the world to our Commonwealth for the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” said Governor Josh Shapiro. “All eyes will be on Pennsylvania this year as we celebrate our country’s 250th Anniversary – and we look forward to showing the world what Philadelphia sports culture is all about. Hosting one of the biggest sporting events in the world is an incredible opportunity for our businesses, our communities, and our people – and these investments show Philly will be ready to meet this moment.”
Host City Supporters receive the opportunity to associate their brand with the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Philadelphia Host City as it brings the world’s largest and most popular sporting event to town. Partners receive co-branding rights, the option to activate at the FIFA Fan Festival™ in Philadelphia, exclusive hospitality and ticketing opportunities, and visibility through local marketing and promotional campaigns.
“As we look forward to welcoming the world this summer, I want to take a moment to celebrate the unwavering dedication of our local business community—a true testament to Philadelphia’s spirit of unity and teamwork,” said Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “Our businesses are the backbone of this great city, driving economic opportunity and enriching our neighborhoods and commercial corridors. Thanks to the exceptional leadership of the Host City Supporters, we are not only poised to deliver an unforgettable experience for our fans but also to create a lasting legacy that will uplift and inspire generations to come.”
FIFA World Cup 2026™ is projected to draw more than 500,000 visitors to Pennsylvania and generate an estimated $770 million economic impact – greater than any sporting event, convention, or celebration ever before held in Philadelphia or Pennsylvania. Projections include the creation of 6,615 direct and indirect jobs, $305 million in direct tourism spending, $314 million in employee compensation, and $51 million in tax revenue.
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About Philadelphia Soccer 2026
Philadelphia Soccer 2026 is the Local Host Committee charged with planning and executing FIFA World Cup 2026™ in coordination with the City of Philadelphia. Established in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, it is governed by a 14-person Board of Directors that convenes leaders from across the City of Philadelphia and the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. For more information, follow us on social media @FWC26Philly.
FIFA World Cup 26™ will be the biggest sporting event ever, with three Host Countries, 16 Host Cities, 48 teams and 104 matches uniting an entire continent to showcase a momentous new tournament format. With more countries, cities, teams, and games, FIFA World Cup 2026™ will be the most inclusive tournament ever, engaging millions of fans across 16 unique stadiums and billions worldwide. The tournament will take place in June and July 2026. For the latest FIFA World Cup 2026™ information please visit the FIFA World Cup 26™ website. For media representatives wishing to stay up-to-date on all things 2026, please register via the FIFA Media Hub.