April 20 – June 30, 2024

In the summer of 1994, Orlando took its place as host for five soccer games of the FIFA World Cup. With the United States serving as World Cup host for the first time, matches were played in nine cities. With billions watching, thousands of fans from Belgium, Ireland, Mexico, Morocco, and the Netherlands descended upon Orlando.

Our current pocket exhibit commemorates this significant event that sparked The City Beautiful’s love affair with The Beautiful Game which has grown, evolved, and endured. Among the items from the tournament featured in the exhibition are a signed Republic of Ireland team photo, a Republic of Ireland jersey signed by manager Jack Charlton, and a soccer ball signed by members of the 1994 U.S. Men’s National Team.