WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) announced $8.47 million in federal funding to support the Philadelphia area’s public transit needs during the FIFA World Cup this summer.
“I’m proud to have secured critical funds to support our commonwealth’s public transit needs as the biggest soccer stage in the world heads to Philadelphia,” said Senator Fetterman. “More than half a million visitors are expected for the six World Cup matches in our state. With this funding, Philadelphia and transit agencies like SEPTA will be ready to deliver for fans from around the world this summer.”
Although the president’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget did not include a request for funding to support transit operations during the FIFA World Cup, Senator Fetterman joined a bipartisan group of his colleagues to secure more than $100 million in the FY2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies appropriations bill, including $8,474,327 for transit in the Philadelphia region.
Philadelphia and other host cities across the U.S. are expected to experience a surge in public transit ridership this summer as World Cup crowds increase demand for services. This funding will allow agencies like SEPTA to increase service levels and ensure fans have access to safe and reliable transportation in the Philadelphia area and in host cities across the country.
“SEPTA is grateful to the region’s Congressional Delegation for recognizing the vital role public transit will play in moving residents and visitors throughout our city and region during the World Cup and the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations,” said SEPTA General Manager Scott A. Sauer. “SEPTA is making important progress in the areas that matter most to our riders, and this critical federal investment will support our operations when we help welcome the world later this year.”
Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field will host six World Cup matches between June 14 and July 4, 2026.
