FIFA World Cup Comes to NYC

The most watched sporting event on Earth, the World Cup puts soccer (or “football,” depending on the country) on a grand stage every four years. Nations from across the globe compete in a monthlong multistage tournament to crown a champion.

Our area will feature eight matches overall, including the World Cup Final on July 19, 2026. The dates are as follows:

• Group Stage Matches: June 13, 16, 22, 25, 27

• Round of 32: June 30

• Round of 16: July 5

• Final Match: July 19

All of our area matches will be held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

You have the opportunity to purchase tickets during during various sales phases that you can access by registering your interest at fifa.com/tickets.

The next phase of ticket sales is the Early Ticket Draw. The entry period to register your interest in purchasing tickets is scheduled to run from October 27 to 31. As with other phases, this involves an application process followed by a randomized selection. If you're chosen, you'll receive a designated time slot to purchase tickets.

For much more information about the ticket sales process, read the FIFA World Cup 26 general ticketing info.

The 2026 edition, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, will include 48 qualifying countries, up from 32—which was the number in the past seven World Cups. That means a longer tournament (June 11–July 19) and more matches (104 in total). The host countries automatically qualify; Argentina, the defending champs, have to requalify to retain the title.

Teams will be separated into 12 groups of four and will play a three-game round-robin. From the group stage, 32 sides (the top two in each group plus the eight teams with the next-best records) will move on to the knockout rounds.

Matches will be played in 16 host cities. New York New Jersey is one of those locations—the one that will host the biggest match of all, the final on July 19, 2026.

Fans traveling to NYC for the World Cup can find trusted hotels near official match locations through Crewfare. Enjoy exclusive discounted fan rates, convenient locations across the city and a seamless booking experience.