Michelle Singer has helped shape some of Philadelphia’s biggest civic moments—from the Democratic National Convention to now co-chairing the city’s FIFA World Cup 2026 efforts. As Senior Vice President of Political Engagement at Comcast and a longtime force behind major citywide initiatives, she understands that events of this scale are never just about the moment—they are about what remains after the crowds leave.

What made you realize the World Cup could be more than just another major event? We knew seven years ago when we began this journey that it would be big, so we were intentional about creating a lasting impact authentic to Philadelphia and the region. It’s not just about matches, but how we connect people across neighborhoods to this global event.

When visitors leave Philadelphia, what do you hope they say about the city? I hope they say it felt authentic. That Philadelphia was welcoming, easy to navigate and full of energy. And that the people here made it memorable in a way that stays with them and makes them want to come back.

What are you most looking forward to when the first match begins here? This has never been about just one match. It is about the impact across the city and region, the chance for Philadelphians to have a front-row seat to one of the biggest events in the world and the partnerships that will last because we did this together.

What have experiences like the DNC and now the World Cup taught you about what Philadelphia does best? Philadelphia knows how to show up. We stay calm, adjust in real time and trust each other to get it done. There is a real sense of shared responsibility, and that is what makes the partnerships work and allows the city to deliver at this level.