Some road trips are about the destination. Others become unforgettable because of the journey. Mine turned out to be both.
When FIFA brought one of the world’s biggest sporting events to Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, I knew I wanted to experience it in a way that matched the occasion. So, my longtime friend and fellow automotive journalist Kimatni D. Rawlins and I climbed into Kia’s all-new 2027 Telluride X-Pro SX Prestige and pointed its nose north from Maryland toward the City of Brotherly Love for the FIFA World Cup match between Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) and Curaçao. As Kia is an Official Partner of the FIFA World Cup, the Telluride X-Pro was the perfect companion for the drive.
Kia’s relationship with FIFA extends well beyond sponsorship. For the FIFA World Cup, Kia provides hundreds of vehicles—including SUVs, passenger cars and electrified models—to transport players, coaches, referees, tournament officials, broadcasters, dignitaries and VIP guests among airports, hotels, training grounds and stadiums. The automaker’s support helps keep one of the world’s largest sporting events moving while showcasing its commitment to innovation, sustainability and global mobility. “We’re proud to support the FIFA World Cup 2026 as the Official Mobility Partner,” said SeungKyu (Sean) Yoon, President and CEO of Kia North America and Kia America. “This vehicle handover represents more than just the future of mobility; it reflects Kia’s commitment to innovation, global connectivity, and enhancing the overall tournament experience.”
Around the tournament, Kia also engages supporters through fan experiences and community football initiatives, reinforcing the idea that mobility is about connecting people as much as transporting them.
Our drive to Philadelphia reminded me why the Telluride has become one of America’s favorite three-row SUVs. Even with Interstate 95 serving up its usual mix of congestion and aggressive traffic, the X-Pro never felt stressed. Its elevated ride height, comfortable seats, excellent highway manners, great fuel economy, and advanced driver-assistance technologies made the miles disappear.
Inside Lincoln Financial Field, the atmosphere was electric long before kickoff. Fans from Côte d’Ivoire and Curaçao transformed the stadium into a vibrant sea of national pride. Drums echoed through the concourses, flags waved from every section, and the DJ music and dancing created an atmosphere that felt more like a festival than a soccer match.
Also, Kia had a special booth where you could explore the Kia lineup.
The occasion also carried a personal connection. In 1986, I made my first trip to Africa, visiting Côte d’Ivoire. That unforgettable journey introduced me to the country’s warm hospitality, vibrant culture, lush tropical scenery, and stunning Atlantic coastline along the Gulf of Guinea. Returning to watch the Elephants compete on one of soccer’s biggest stages brought back those memories.
Match Time!
Every possession, every save and every eruption from the crowd reinforced why billions around the globe call soccer “the beautiful game” because of its combination of skill, artistry, teamwork, and emotional appeal.
Our seats at midfield in the lower bowl provided the perfect vantage point to appreciate every tactical move. Supporters from both nations created an atmosphere that was every bit as memorable as the action on the field.
For Côte d’Ivoire, this match represented another opportunity to showcase one of Africa’s proud footballing traditions on the world stage. The Elephants have long been among the continent’s elite national teams, producing internationally renowned stars and inspiring generations of fans with their skill, athleticism, and resilience. Facing an ambitious Curaçao squad made for an entertaining, high-energy contest worthy of the World Cup atmosphere.
At the end of stoppage time, it was clear that Côte d’Ivoire was the superior team, winning 2-0. But Curaçao never gave up the fight.
Congratulations, Côte d’Ivoire!
As Kimatni and I headed to our host hotel after the final whistle, the memories of thousands of supporters singing with pride and world-class soccer on the pitch combined to create an adventure that perfectly captured the spirit of the World Cup.
Some journeys are measured in miles. Others are measured in memories. This one delivered both, reminding me that great road trips—and great sporting events—have the power to connect cultures, celebrate nations, and create stories that stay with you long after the final whistle.
Thank you, Kimatni, James Bell, Head of Communications for Kia, and the entire Kia team for a bucket-list experience!
