Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro is emerging as a major World Cup enthusiast among potential 2028 presidential candidates.
On Monday, Shapiro is scheduled to attend his second World Cup match at Lincoln Financial Field, where Iraq will face off against France in Philadelphia, as confirmed by his spokesperson. A week earlier, he and his wife Lori were present for the Ivory Coast versus Ecuador game at the same venue. Additionally, Shapiro plans to visit the FIFA Fan Festival before the match.
Shapiro is part of a growing group of 2028 presidential hopefuls attending the tournament. California Governor Gavin Newsom, accompanied by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, witnessed the U.S. team’s opening match against Paraguay. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. attended the U.S. match against Australia. New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill, who is building a leadership role within her party but has not formally entered the presidential race, attended the France versus Senegal game at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Not all potential candidates from states hosting the games have attended a match. Senator Cory Booker from New Jersey has not been to an East Rutherford game. Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock from Georgia have not attended any games at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Ossoff has expressed no interest in the presidency). Similarly, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez from New York and Senator Ted Cruz from Texas have not attended matches in their respective states.
Locally known as “Josh in Abington” on sports radio, Shapiro is a dedicated fan of the Philadelphia Eagles and 76ers. His sports enthusiasm might help him connect with voters. Philadelphia’s fan zone has been attracting large crowds.
Shapiro has also taken advantage of his hosting role to distribute 700 free World Cup tickets to community organizations in Philadelphia. He emphasized the importance of this initiative upon securing the matches.
According to a press release, “Governor Shapiro believes the FIFA World Cup is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that should benefit all Pennsylvanians.” He is committed to making the matches accessible to as many people as possible.
These complimentary tickets also serve as a tool for economic development. A Shapiro spokesperson explained that through Visit PA’s sponsorship of Philadelphia Soccer 2026, the Commonwealth is utilizing a mix of suite, VIP, and general admission tickets to engage business leaders, potential partners, and other guests, aiming to bolster Pennsylvania’s economic growth and promote it as a prime destination to visit, live, and conduct business.
Eric Koch, a New York City-based soccer fan and Democratic consultant, acknowledges the complex politics of attending a FIFA World Cup game. “In fairness, the ticket prices are insane, and the U.S. matches have all been on the West Coast, making it difficult for anyone to attend,” Koch noted. “The U.S. loves a winner, and this talented squad is on the verge of capturing the nation’s heart as they move into the knockout rounds. I expect more candidates will rally behind them. It’s a unifying event.”
Koch believes that Democrats, in particular, could use the World Cup to foster patriotism and better connect with voters, provided their support is genuine.
“In politics, authenticity is crucial. If your actions don’t align with your true self, they will seem insincere, especially in sports, where people have deep connections,” Koch remarked. “The USMNT has the potential to be a unifying team, and as excitement grows, more politicians are likely to support them.”
