FIFA World Cup coming to New Jersey and New York in 2026

The biggest tournament in the world’s most popular sport is coming to New Jersey.

Officials from FIFA, soccer’s governing body, announced that MetLife Stadium will be one of just 15 locations across North America and 11 in the U.S. to play host to the 2026 World Cup tournament.

While the number of matches and in what rounds of the tournament is yet to be determined, many have touted MetLife Stadium as a favorite to host the final match.

The U.S last hosted the FIFA World Cup in 1994 with the former Giants Stadium playing host to seven games, including a quarterfinal and semifinal match.

The portuguese community was present at the event where the MetLife Stadium was announced has one of the stadiums to receive the World Cup

Celebrating the selection at a watch party held at Liberty State Park was Governor Phil Murphy, himself a serious soccer fan, and perhaps the number one advocate for the selection.

Murphy promised it would be a “huge experience” for the region, predicting that its impact would surpass the $500 million realized in 1994, an event that also led to a “resurgence” in the sport across the nation.

“We’re hoping for a lot of games,” Murphy said. “But we want the trophy hoisted at MetLife Stadium,” he added, staking New Jersey’s claim to host the championship.