Philadelphia makes strong impression on visitors as FIFA World Cup host city
Philadelphia makes strong first impression on FIFA World Cup visitors
The FIFA World Cup is well underway, and Philadelphia is welcoming fans from around the world. Here's a look at what they think of the host city so far.
PHILADELPHIA - Soccer fans from across the globe gathered in Philadelphia on Sunday for the city’s first FIFA World Cup match, with many visitors sharing positive reviews of the city’s energy, attractions and hospitality, according to fans and FIFA Fan Fest organizers.
Fans from around the world experience Philadelphia’s World Cup atmosphere
What we know:
Thousands of soccer fans gathered at the Art Museum before the match, with visitors like Daniel Andrade from Ecuador saying, "First time in this place, I am in love." Andrade also called Philadelphia "a beautiful city. It's a really impressive historical city from the US."
Even though Ecuador lost to Ivory Coast on Sunday, Andrade said he enjoyed seeing the city’s historic sites and trying local food, including the Philly cheesesteak and pizza. "It’s beautiful the Philly cheesesteak… Pats King of Steaks, also the pizza," said Andrade.
Sebastian White, a lifelong soccer fan from Chicago, visited with his dad and used SEPTA to get around the city. "No issues whatsoever, we use the tap on tap off. It was great," said White.
The FIFA Fan Fest offered free activities for families, with Micheal DelBane from FIFA Fan Festival saying, "You can come out here and have a great day and u can spend all day out here with the family and friends watching matches building community and you don't have to spend a penny."
Many visitors highlighted the warm welcome they received, with DelBane saying, "People are going out of their way to be warm and welcoming and hospitable, people are walking each other to the bus stop and they’re giving directions on how to take the septa system and that's what Philadelphia is all about."
The city’s hospitality and community spirit were on full display as fans explored Philadelphia’s neighborhoods and enjoyed the festivities.
By the numbers:
The City of Philadelphia released some initial counts Tuesday morning for FIFA-related events in the city so far.
68,274 fans attended the first match at Philadelphia Stadium on Sunday where Ivory Coast came out victorious over Ecuador.
In the first four days of the FIFA Fan Festival at Lemon HIll more than 100,000 visitors have attended. Nearly 43,000 attended on Sunday alone, as the city hosted its first match.
Down at the Philadelphia International Airport, officials estimate more than 438,000 arriving and departing passengers between June 11 and June 15, including soccer fans traveling from around the world.
What they're saying:
"This is exactly the Philadelphia we always knew we could show the world," said Daniel J. Hilferty, Co-Chair of Philadelphia Soccer 2026. "More than 100,000 fans came through FIFA Fan Festival™ Philadelphia in just four days, bringing together families, visitors, and supporters from around the globe. The energy throughout the city has been incredible."
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker was also celebratory of the city's hosting efforts so far.
"Philadelphia has spent years preparing for this moment, and over the past week we have seen the best of our city on display," said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. "From welcoming visitors to keeping people safe, Philadelphians have shown the hospitality, service, and pride that define our city. We are grateful for their efforts and excited about everything still to come."
"This has truly been a One Philly effort," said Chief Deputy Mayor Vanessa Garrett Harley. "From transportation and public safety to hospitality and visitor services, City employees and volunteers have worked together to deliver a welcoming experience. We are proud of what we've accomplished so far and we are focused on building on that success in the weeks ahead."
Excitement builds for Brazil vs. Haiti match on Friday
What's next:
The next World Cup match in Philadelphia will feature Brazil and Haiti on Friday, and local fans are eager for another chance to celebrate their teams. Haitian fans in Philadelphia expressed pride and anticipation, saying, "YOU KNOW HAITI WE HAVE BEEN THROUGH SO MUCH, so it feels amazing to see our country even make it this far."
Ahead of the match, Haitian fans shared a message in Creole: "It means Haiti, my sweet love, we been though a lot we gonna make it!"
The upcoming match is expected to bring even more international visitors and energy to the city as Philadelphia continues its role as a World Cup host.
Philadelphia’s role as a World Cup host city has given fans and residents a chance to showcase the city’s sports culture and hospitality to a global audience.
What we don't know:
It is not yet clear how many fans attended the match or the FIFA Fan Fest on Sunday, and details about additional events or activities planned for the next match have not been announced.
The Source: Information from interviews with fans and FIFA Fan Fest organizers.