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Philadelphia is trying to use the 2026 World Cup to solidify its image as one of the most welcoming and affordable cities on the East Coast of the United States. For the six games to be played at Lincoln Financial Field, known during the tournament as Philadelphia Stadium due to FIFA's sponsorship rules, fans will pay just $2.90 for public transportation.
Local authorities and organizers will put the fan experience at the heart of the organization. According to the head of the local organizing committee, Meg Kane, this has been a long-term goal of the city.
" We always wanted to build an experience that puts the fan first during the World Cup in Philadelphia ," she stated.
Meanwhile, ticket prices on the secondary market have also dropped by around 16 percent compared to last month. Hotels continue to charge relatively reasonable rates, while fan zones will be free throughout the tournament.
Criticism of high costs
In most host cities, the 2026 World Cup has been met with criticism over the high prices of tickets, transport and accommodation. FIFA aims to maximise revenue, which it says will be used to develop football, while local authorities seek to offset the huge costs of hosting.
In some cases, the prices have been considered excessive. Train tickets from New York to MetLife Stadium in New Jersey have reached $150, up from just $13. The fares have since dropped to $98 thanks to sponsorship. Even a trip from Boston to Gillette Stadium costs about $80.
In the face of criticism, some cities have begun taking measures to ease the financial burden on fans. In New York, after the cancellation of a fan zone at Liberty State Park due to high costs to taxpayers, local authorities announced the creation of five free zones for fans in different neighborhoods of the city.
Cities that are investing in a positive image
Some organizers have chosen to sacrifice a portion of their profits to create a more fan-friendly atmosphere.
In Atlanta, the owner of the Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta United FC and Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Arthur Blank, has decided not to raise food prices during the World Cup. Hot dogs will continue to cost just $2, the same as during regular sporting events.
" The fans give us their energy, time, passion and money. We have to respect that ," Blank said.
Kansas City is also investing in public transportation for fans, despite a poor track record in the sector. Round-trip rides to the stadium will cost just $15, while buses from the airport to downtown will be free. A regional bus network connecting fan zones to various points in the city will cost $5 per day or $50 for the entire tournament.
Between profit and reputation
According to the organizers, the choice to keep prices lower is not only economic, but also strategic for the image of the organizing cities.
Philadelphia, which has secured support from local businesses and public funding to host the event, is trying to create a more affordable model for fans.
" Hosting the World Cup is different from any other major event and it changes the profile of the city ," said Meg Kane.
In a tournament that is expected to be among the most expensive in history, several American cities are trying to show that it is still possible to put fans before maximum profit.
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