From football to soccer: The Linc prepares to host World Cup games

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Final preparations are underway at Lincoln Financial Field, where crews are covering standard stadium signage.

Inside, the newly installed pitch is ready for play ahead of this summer's FIFA World Cup.

"The roar of this stadium is unlike any other," said Meg Kane, CEO of Philadelphia Soccer 2026.

The home of the Philadelphia Eagles will host six World Cup matches, transforming from American football turf to a regulation soccer field.

Eagles COO Frank Gumienny said the organization is eager for the atmosphere that comes with global competition.

"The roar of the crowd, the fireworks going off, that's kind of the rewarding part. We're looking forward to seeing that on June 14," he said.

Players from Brazil, the Ivory Coast, Croatia, Haiti, Iraq, France and other nations will take the field. It's 68x195 meters of Kentucky bluegrass, laid down where the gridiron would be.

Preparing the field requires precision, down to the height of each blade.

"The grass itself will be mowed at 22 millimeters," said Tony Leonard, the Eagles' vice president of grounds.

The stadium has hosted international soccer before, an experience Gumienny said proved valuable.

"Having the Club World Cup last year actually really helped," he said.

Outside the venue, parking passes are available for purchase for ticket holders planning to tailgate. Inside, the least expensive seats range from $600 to $2,800 per game.

"I hope that they love the experience of fans, of the way that we cheer here. The sound, the roar is unlike any other," Kane said.

On June 14, officials expect about 65,000 fans, local and international, to fill the stands. The venue, famously known for its gameday energy, is preparing to host one of its biggest events yet.