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FIFA president and local organizers tout World Cup preparations; FIFA pledges $1 million legacy gift to Philadelphia
Summary
Dan Hilferty and FIFA President Gianni Infantino addressed City Council, praised Philadelphia's selection as a 2026 host city, and announced a $1 million FIFA legacy donation to fund local mini-soccer pitches and youth activities.
Dan Hilferty, chair of the Philadelphia Soccer 2026 board, and FIFA President Gianni Infantino addressed Philadelphia City Council on April 10 to mark the city's role as a host site for FIFA events in 2025 and 2026.
Hilferty thanked City Council and city leaders for their partnership in securing and preparing for the World Cup events, and he introduced Gianni Infantino, who described soccer as a unifying global sport and celebrated Philadelphia's selection to host matches and fan festivals.
"We want to unite the world here in Philadelphia," Infantino said, and announced FIFA will "donate to the whole city of Philadelphia 1,000,000 US Dollar to be used as a legacy for being a host city of the FIFA Club World Cup." He said the funds are intended for small soccer pitches and activities run with local associations to provide play opportunities for children.
City and FIFA officials framed the gift as part of a broader legacy strategy to leave permanent youth and community benefits from hosting international matches. Council members thanked the delegation and noted plans for further coordination with city agencies on transportation, public safety and fan zones; a brief photo opportunity followed the remarks.
No legislation or appropriation was recorded; the statement on the pledge was made on the floor as a pledge of support and described as a legacy grant to be worked out between FIFA, city entities and local partners.
