Philadelphia Leads with First-Ever City Unique FIFA World Cup Poster Unveiled at Flower Show
Since 1930, the FIFA World Cup has maintained its tradition of designing an official poster for each edition of the much-anticipated tournament. However, the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to break new grounds by featuring unique posters created for each of its 16 host cities across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Philadelphia, one of the host cities, took the lead by being the first city to unveil its poster design to the public.
The official unveiling took place on March 5, 2025, at a press conference held by Philadelphia Soccer 2026. This non-profit organization is the operational Host Committee charged with planning and executing the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Philadelphia. The press conference was held at the Philadelphia Flower Show, where the city’s residents were treated to a first look at the poster symbolizing Philadelphia as a host city for the 2026 World Cup.
The poster was presented through a floral interpretation at the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society’s flower show inside the Pennsylvania Convention Center. This unique unveiling approach brings together two of the city’s passions – soccer and flora, in an artistic and symbolic manner.
In a bid to foster creativity and involve the residents in the preparation for the World Cup, Philadelphia Soccer 2026 ran a statewide design contest for the poster. According to Meg Kane, CEO of Philadelphia Soccer 2026, the contest received over 400 submissions, and FIFA was given the opportunity to select the finalist. “We understood the significance of the moment and what this host city poster represents,” said Kane.
The winning design came courtesy of Nick McClintock, an artist based in Pittsburgh. “I’m truly honored that my design was chosen to represent Philadelphia for the FIFA World Cup,” McClintock shared. His design, which is an amalgamation of city landmarks and soccer icons, truly captures the spirit of Philadelphia and the FIFA World Cup.
The poster also carries with it a story of Pennsylvania values, of tolerance, freedom, and progress. Valley Forge Flowers, a family-owned business for the last 50 years, created the stunning floral interpretation of the poster design. The design is set to remain on display at the Flower Show until March 9, 2025, offering residents and visitors alike the opportunity to view and appreciate the beautiful floral poster.
The upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 will mark the largest competition ever hosted by FIFA. Philadelphia is scheduled to host five Group Stage matches on June 14, June 19, June 22, June 25, and June 27, and a Round of 16 match on the United States semiquincentennial, July 4, 2026. Posters for each host city are expected to go on sale later this year, providing fans across the globe the chance to own a piece of this historic event.