Delaware Governor Matt Meyer announced on February 12, 2026, that the state will host one FIFA World Cup club team for lodging while they practice nearby in Pennsylvania. The state is partnering with Philadelphia Soccer 2026 to organize watch parties and festivities to capitalize on the tournament's economic impact. Officials expect these events to draw thousands of visitors and boost local tourism.
On February 12, 2026, at a tourism event in Wilmington, Governor Matt Meyer revealed Delaware's plans to participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026, set to feature matches in nearby Philadelphia. One undisclosed club team will base itself in the state for lodging, with practices at the Philadelphia Union's Subaru Park in Chester, Pennsylvania. "There's never been a [Delaware] governor who can stand up and say that the World Cup is coming here," Meyer said. "We're very excited about that, bringing ... a place of the world's best here to Delaware."
The Delaware Tourism Office has partnered with Philadelphia Soccer 2026 to bring tournament excitement to the state. Jessica Walsh, director of the Delaware Tourism Office, stated, "By partnering with Philadelphia Soccer 2026, we're creating opportunities for Delawareans to experience the magic of the World Cup close to home while showcasing our state as a welcoming, vibrant destination for visitors from around the world." Meg Kane, host city executive for Philadelphia Soccer 2026, emphasized regional collaboration: "Hosting the World Cup at this scale demands regional collaboration, and Delaware is an essential part of that effort."
Economic projections highlight the stakes, with Philadelphia Soccer 2026 estimating a $770 million impact in the region from over 500,000 visitors, many staying 21 to 24 days. Walsh hopes Delaware captures 10% of that, or $77 million. To engage locals and tourists, a pep rally is scheduled for May 19 at DE Turf Sports Complex in Frederica, featuring giveaways, entertainment, and soccer activations.
Four ticketed watch parties, priced at $12 to $15, will occur across the state, with sales starting March 5, 2026, via visitdelaware.com/worldcup. The events, pending FIFA approval, include:
- June 12: USA vs. Paraguay at Bob Carpenter Center, Newark (doors 7 p.m., match 9 p.m.)
- June 20: Germany vs. Ivory Coast at Hudson Fields, Milton (doors 2 p.m., match 4 p.m.)
- June 26: Uruguay vs. Spain at Delaware State Fairgrounds, Harrington (doors 6 p.m., match 8 p.m.)
- July 19: World Cup Final at Delaware Stadium, University of Delaware, Newark (doors 1 p.m., match 3 p.m.)
Officials anticipate over 25,000 attendees, including 10,000 for the final. These differ from Philadelphia's free FIFA Fan Festival at Lemon Hill Park by charging a nominal fee to cover costs for Delawareans. The World Cup final will be at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, renamed New York New Jersey Stadium for the event.
