World Cup Soccer Finals To Come To MetLife Stadium In NJ, FIFA Announces

NEW JERSEY — World Cup fever hit the New Jersey/New York area this weekend when the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) in Zurich announced that the 2026 World Cup final will be held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. in 2026.

The actual announcement referred to "New York New Jersey," prompting some chuckles among residents and sports fans used to New Jersey being ignored in favor of New York in such announcements. But the Garden State won't be ignored when the series of matches culminates at the stadium on Sunday, July 19, 2026.

The announcement was part of a release of the match schedule for the tournament, which will take place in Canada, Mexico and the USA that summer. Forty-eight teams will participate.

The national teams for Mexico, Canada, and the United States will each play their three group-stage matches on home soil, FIFA said.

The U.S. will kick off their campaign on Friday, June 16 in Los Angeles, while Canada will start the same day in Toronto.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino said: “The most inclusive and impactful FIFA World Cup ever is no longer a dream but a reality that will take shape in the form of 104 matches in 16 state-of-the-art stadiums across Canada, Mexico and the USA."

He added, "From the opening match at the iconic Estadio Azteca to the spectacular final in New York New Jersey players and fans have been at the core of our extensive planning for this game-changing tournament.”

“I would like to thank our three host countries and 16 Host Cities for the unwavering commitment to staging a FIFA World Cup that will not only set new records but also leave an indelible legacy.”

FIFA Vice-President and Concacaf President Victor Montagliani said: “The FIFA World Cup 26 will be a watershed moment and one that will trigger massive football development in our region and worldwide. While each Host City is unique, they all have something in common – they are passionate about football and cannot wait to welcome the world in June and July 2026.”

The schedule seeks to "minimize travel" for teams and fans, with rest days between tours. Expected weather conditions were also a factor.

FIFA said, "Match pairings and kick-off times will be confirmed following the Final Draw for FIFA World Cup 26, which is expected to take place towards the end of 2025."

The Reaction

Gov. Phil Murphy said on Sunday: "As a lifelong soccer fan, I am thrilled to announce that the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final will be hosted by New Jersey and New York City! See you in 2026! #WeAreNYNJ"

Sports fans expressed their delight on social media, with some amused by the geography in the announcement.

"Is 'New York New Jersey' technically the Statue of Liberty?" asked one commenter.

See the new 2026 schedule here.