Philadelphia, PA — Music and cheers filled Comcast Plaza in Center City as fans gathered to mark the 100-day countdown for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with the “How Do You Phan?”Pep Rally last Tuesday. Together, soccer fans and community leaders were eager to celebrate the city’s role as a host.
The celebration featured appearances from Philadelphia sports icons, mascots, music from a live DJ, and a performance by the Kulu Mele African Drum and Dance Ensemble, whose drumming and dance energized and gathered the crowd before speakers took the stage.
Among those appearing was Defensive End Brandon Graham of the Philadelphia Eagles, who started the Pep Rally and greeted fans as the city celebrated the upcoming tournament.
Michelle Singer, Co-President of the Board of Philadelphia Soccer 2026, also appeared on stage to acknowledge the economic impact the tournament will have and the opportunity for the city to share its identity with a global audience.
“The World Cup is an opportunity to showcase who we are as a city and show the world what makes Philadelphia so special,” Singer said.
Meg Kane, CEO of Philadelphia Soccer 2026, said the city’s character and diversity will be key to welcoming visitors from around the world.
“Philadelphia is such a unique host city,” Kane said. “What truly makes the city shine is our immigrant heritage and the diversity of our communities. That authenticity and passion is what will connect with the world when visitors come for the World Cup.”
Philadelphia will host six matches at Lincoln Financial Field during the tournament and is expected to bring thousands of international visitors to the region. To highlight the many different fan bases here in Philly, the “How Do You Phan?” campaign was revealed, hyping up fans to represent their favorite soccer teams.
Aside from cheering on the stage moments, attendees explored interactive stations celebrating the countdown. A large chalk wall invited fans to write down their favorite Philadelphia “PHAN” moments, while a vending machine dispensed limited-edition illustrations created for the event.
The custom illustrations were designed by Philadelphia-based Chilean artist Fabiola Lara, who said the project allowed her to represent the city through her work. “I’ve been in Philadelphia for a long time creating design and art inspired by the city,” Lara said.
She noted that contributing artwork to the event was an exciting opportunity to combine her artistry with the city’s growing soccer culture. A prime example of how local businesses and creators have experienced the cultural and economic influence of the World Cup already.
While the crowd reflected the city’s diversity, the celebration also highlighted the deep cultural roots soccer already has in Philadelphia’s immigrant and Latino communities. For many families, the sport has long been part of community life and international identity. The opportunity to get involved and showcase their fandom is raising spirits and bringing joy across the city.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada and will be the largest tournament in the competition’s history.
Fans looking to join the celebration can learn more about the campaign and access fan toolkits for the national teams by visiting phillyfwc26.com/how-do-you-phan.
With the countdown underway, Philadelphia is preparing its community’s spirit to welcome ‘Phans’ from around the world.
