CHESTER, Pa. (WPVI) — The national soccer team for Cote d’Ivoire, or Ivory Coast, will use the Philadelphia Union’s stadium as its official training site during this summer’s FIFA World Cup, bringing one of the tournament’s elite squads to the Philadelphia region.
Organizers said the decision marks a historic moment for Chester and the Delaware Valley as the team prepares for its first World Cup appearance since 2014.
“It is a world-class facility for world-class athletes,” said Meg Kane, the Philadelphia Soccer 2026 host city executive.
“It’s huge for us. We’re thrilled,” added Philadelphia Union President Tim McDermott.
McDermott added Ivory Coast will have full access to both Subaru Park and the WSFS Bank Sportsplex.
“We have built this facility to host things like this and bring in world-class powerhouses around the globe,” he said.
Kane said the team’s presence is expected to energize fans across the region.
“The other part that’s really exciting for us is the fans they will draw,” she said. “There is an incredible African diaspora in the United States, especially in the Philadelphia region.”
Ivory Coast enters the tournament after winning the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, and Kane said the team’s identity will resonate locally.
“One of things I love is their nickname, Les Elephants,” she said. “Because it is symbolic to the animal that represents their nation, but also for strength and heritage, and I think that’s something that resonates in our community.”
The team will stay in Wilmington, Delaware, while training in Chester.
Ivory Coast is scheduled to play two matches in Philadelphia, including the city’s opening game on June 14 against Ecuador.
Kane said she expects the region to embrace the team.
“I think they will love Philadelphia. I think they will love Chester and Delaware County, and I think we will fall in love with them too.”
Copyright © 2026 WPVI-TV. All Rights Reserved.