### The Countdown to the FIFA World Cup
As excitement builds, the countdown to the **2026 FIFA World Cup** has officially begun! With just one year to go, anticipation is palpable across the globe. This landmark event in soccer will unfold in cities throughout **the United States, Mexico, and Canada**, offering fans a chance to witness high-stakes matches in vibrant locales.
### Philadelphia: A Host City
Among the host cities, **Philadelphia** is gearing up to play a significant role in this international spectacle. On **Wednesday, June 11**, city leaders celebrated the milestone by unveiling a FIFA World Cup countdown clock in **Dilworth Park**. This event not only symbolizes the excitement ahead but also highlights Philadelphia’s readiness to welcome soccer enthusiasts from around the world.
In **2026**, Philadelphia is poised to host **five Group Stage matches** of the World Cup, adding to its already packed agenda. The city will also be the backdrop for the **MLB All-Star Game**, **NCAA March Madness**, and the **PGA Championship**, along with festivities marking **America’s 250th anniversary**.
### Economic Boost and Local Engagement
The influx of tourists for these high-profile events represents a significant economic opportunity for the City of Brotherly Love. **Gregg Caren**, president and CEO of the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau, emphasized the importance of making every day of 2026 count. The goal is clear: to attract as many visitors as possible and ensure they contribute to the local economy.
Caren stated, “Our mission is to make sure every one of those days is filled with as many out-of-town visitors that leave Philadelphia with less money than they came with.” This focus on economic growth underscores the transformative potential of hosting such a prestigious event.
### Pre-World Cup Action: The FIFA Club World Cup
Before the World Cup excitement kicks off in 2026, Philadelphia will also host **eight matches in the FIFA Club World Cup** in **2025**, taking place from **June 16 to July 4** at **Lincoln Financial Field**. The competition will give soccer fans a glimpse of the action to come, as top clubs from around the globe battle for supremacy.
In preparation for this event, **Stockton University** in Galloway Township, New Jersey, will serve as a training site for players from **Brazil’s CR Flamengo**, a club boasting millions of followers worldwide. This influx of international attention will further increase Philadelphia’s stature as a soccer hub.
### Local Businesses Ready for the Rush
As soccer fever heats up, local establishments are gearing up to accommodate the surge of fans. One of these is **Lion Sports Bar**, located on Arch Street. Owner **Mark Prinzinger** has witnessed the growing passion for soccer in Philadelphia firsthand. “For the Champions League final, you couldn’t even walk through here,” he remarked.
Despite being a relatively new establishment, Prinzinger’s bar has quickly become a go-to spot for fans. With plans to host the official **FIFA Club World Cup 2025 watch party**, the bar exemplifies the excitement surrounding these major soccer events. “I’m going to be sleepless for the next 365 days!” Prinzinger declared with a laugh, highlighting the enthusiasm of local business owners.
As the **2026 FIFA World Cup** approaches, the excitement in Philadelphia is just beginning. With a busy calendar of events and the countdown clock ticking away, the City of Brotherly Love stands ready to welcome guests and create lasting memories for soccer fans from all corners of the globe.
