Philadelphia, PA — The Philadelphia Eagles and Philadelphia Soccer 2026 gave a first look, May 13, at Lincoln Financial Field’s transformation for FIFA World Cup 2026, showing the newly installed soccer pitch and signs of the stadium’s transition into a global fútbol venue.
Inside the stadium, the change was already visible. Fresh grass covered the field, the edges of the pitch were still under construction, and the soccer goals were in the process of being built and placed. Across the venue, Eagles signage was being removed or covered as the stadium moves toward FIFA’s required “clean” state, a process that includes changes throughout the concourse and exterior areas.
Large digital scoreboards displayed “We Are Philadelphia,” while new FIFA World Cup 2026 signage appeared around the stadium. Outside, Pepsi Plaza is expected to change as FIFA sponsor Coca-Cola takes over during the tournament. The Miller Lite Phlite Deck will also be adjusted as part of the transition.
The first look offered an early glimpse of the stadium’s tournament-ready form, just days before FIFA’s exclusive use period begins. The stadium must be ready for FIFA to officially take over by Friday, May 15.
“We are most excited to showcase Philadelphia and Lincoln Financial Field for the world,” said Meg Kane, Host City Executive/CEO of Philadelphia Soccer 2026.
Meg said the stadium was already in a strong position before the current changes began.
Frank Gumienny, Chief Operating Officer of the Philadelphia Eagles and Chief Tournament Officer of Philadelphia Soccer 2026, said hosting international events has long been part of the vision for the stadium.
“One of the things that we sort of made a promise to the city and to the state is that we would bring large-scale events, worldwide events,” Frank said.
Frank also connected the upcoming tournament to Philadelphia’s reputation as a passionate sports city.
“Everyone knows Philadelphia to be a huge, passionate fan base,” Frank said. “This will just be another huge, passionate fan base.”
For Philadelphia Soccer 2026, the World Cup is not only about preparing the building. It is also about preparing the city to welcome fans from around the world. Meg said previous international soccer events showed how strongly visitors responded to Philadelphia’s energy.
“They love the passion and the way that we cheer here,” Meg said.
Standing on the newly installed pitch, with construction still underway around the stadium, the countdown to the tournament felt more real.
“Standing on this field 29 days out from the matches opening is a bit surreal,” Meg said.
As Lincoln Financial Field becomes Philadelphia Stadium for the World Cup, the work continues. The Eagles’ home is being reshaped for fútbol, and Philadelphia is preparing to step onto a global stage.
