For Immediate Release
Philadelphia (Oct 15, 2025)Philadelphia Soccer 2026, the 501c3 non-profit that serves as the Local Host Committee charged with planning and executing FIFA World Cup 26™ in coordination with the City of Philadelphia, marked a major milestone today with the grand opening of its FIFA World Cup 26™ Volunteer Center. The celebration offered attendees their first look at the space, featuring local mascots, soccer-themed activations, and Philadelphia Soccer 2026 giveaways. Guests also got a sneak peek at the exclusive FIFA Museum, a highlight of the center’s amenities.
Strategically located at Fashion District Philadelphia, the Volunteer Center signals a major step forward in planning for FIFA World Cup 26™. As the heartbeat of tournament operations, the center will host volunteers through every phase of the journey — from Volunteer Team Tryouts to training, accreditation, uniform pickup, and tournament operations.
“With the opening of Philadelphia’s FIFA World Cup 26™ Volunteer Center, we are entering an exciting new phase of preparations,” said Alison Grove, Senior Director, Strategy, Operations, and Partnerships/Volunteer Lead for Philadelphia Soccer 2026. “This space is one of the first physical touchpoints for the tournament in Philadelphia, and it’s ready to welcome, train, and inspire thousands of volunteers. It’s a special space for the people who will help bring the World Cup to life and show the world what makes our city so special.”
In coordination with FIFA, each Host City has developed a tailored volunteer strategy based on its unique tournament footprint — including the number of matches, the scale of its FIFA Fan Festival™, and expected visitation. In Philadelphia, more than 3,000 volunteers will support tournament operations. A core team of “Starting Lineup Volunteers” have already been selected and will assist with Volunteer Team Tryouts, scheduled to begin later this month.
“The launch of our FIFA World Cup 26™ Volunteer Center embodies Philadelphia’s energy, optimism, and pride in welcoming the world,” said Michelle Singer, Co-Chair, Philadelphia Soccer 2026. “Located in the heart of the city, it showcases one of the many ways Philadelphia will make this tournament shine—creating a vibrant hub where volunteers, citizens, and visitors can come together to experience the excitement of the moment and help build an enduring legacy for the future.”
In addition to its functional role in tournament operations, the new Volunteer Center also underscores Philadelphia Soccer 2026’s commitment to community investment and the ongoing revitalization of East Market Street. This activation is designed to serve as a catalyst for long-term growth, highlighting the broader economic and civic legacy that FIFA World Cup 26™ will deliver.
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About Philadelphia Soccer 2026
Philadelphia Soccer 2026 is the Local Host Committee charged with planning and executing FIFA World Cup 26™ 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 26™ 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 26™ 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.