New York World Cup 2026 Tickets

New York/New Jersey: The World Cup Comes to the Big Apple

The 2026 World Cup spans 3 countries, 16 cities, and 104 matches across North America this summer, with the USA, Canada, and Mexico all gearing up for waves of international supporters. Among these 16 host cities, New York/New Jersey stands out as one of the most eagerly anticipated destinations.

Renowned for iconic landmarks, as the birthplace of Frank Sinatra, and its pivotal role in the American Revolution, New York and New Jersey form cultural melting pots perfectly suited to host the planet’s most-watched event. Together, they’ve welcomed everything from Super Bowls and Copa América Finals to legendary boxing nights at Madison Square Garden and US Open Tennis Championships in Queens. With the World Cup arriving this summer, they’re ready to deliver another unforgettable spectacle.

Securing Your New York/New Jersey Match Tickets

With the World Cup happening just once every four years, ticket demand reaches astronomical levels. Our customer support team regularly hears from supporters asking how they can possibly secure New York/New Jersey seats. Here’s your complete step-by-step guide:

1. Choose your target fixture and click ‘Find Tickets’
2. Pick your preferred seating zone using the stadium diagram
3. Specify the number of tickets you’re purchasing
4. Hit the ‘Get now’ button
5. Complete the order form with your information
6. Double-check all details for accuracy
7. Click ‘Make Payment’
8. Done – tickets secured!

Remember that pricing varies based on seating category and match importance. Knockout fixtures and games featuring popular nations vanish incredibly quickly, so book early and stay alert for release announcements!

MetLife Stadium – Stage for the Final

Out of next summer’s 104 World Cup matches, 8 unfold in New York/New Jersey, all at MetLife Stadium. Located in East Rutherford, New Jersey, the stadium is often associated with New York due to its Manhattan proximity, though it actually sits on the New Jersey side of the Hudson River.

As home to both the NFL’s New York Giants and New York Jets, the stadium packs in 82,500 spectators – the NFL’s largest capacity. Opened in 2010 as the most expensive stadium ever constructed at the time, it features cutting-edge facilities including 2,100+ HD monitors, one of the largest 4K video displays in any stadium, and 1,300+ solar panels powering its environmentally conscious design.

MetLife Stadium will host the World Cup final, and it’s no stranger to massive sporting events, having welcomed the Club World Cup Final in 2025, Copa America Final in 2016, and Super Bowl XLVIII in 2014. With its enormous capacity, state-of-the-art facilities, and proven track record, MetLife is supremely prepared for the planet’s most-watched event.

Quick note: During the World Cup, MetLife Stadium will officially be called ‘New York New Jersey Stadium’ per tournament sponsorship and branding regulations.

City	Stadium	Capacity	Matches Hosted	Tournament Phases
New York/New Jersey	MetLife Stadium	82,500	8	Group Stage, Round of 32, Round of 16, Final

New York/New Jersey World Cup Fan Festival

No match ticket? Not a problem – the celebration continues at Liberty State Park throughout the tournament. Offering spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline, Ellis Island, and the iconic Statue of Liberty, this venue becomes the perfect gathering point for football supporters worldwide.

What awaits you?

• Live match screenings on massive displays
• Food vendors and culinary options
• Live music and performances
• Interactive games celebrating the World Cup spirit

Best of all, the Fan Festival is completely free to attend, making it the ultimate destination for football fans from all backgrounds to gather and enjoy the tournament’s celebratory atmosphere.

Where to Stay: Accommodation for Every Budget

Whether your priority is proximity to the Fan Festival for soaking up World Cup atmosphere or staying closer to the stadium for match days, plenty of accommodation options await. Here’s what’s available.

Budget-Friendly Hotels (Under £130 per night)

Hotel	Travel to MetLife Stadium	Travel to Liberty State Park
Super 8 by Wyndham Meadowlands	Walk: 10 min / Drive: 3 min	Drive: 25-30 min
Extended Stay America – East Rutherford	Walk: 12 min / Drive: 4 min	Drive: 25-30 min
Holiday Inn Express Meadowlands Area	Drive: 5 min	Drive: 25-30 min
Hampton Inn Carlstadt	Walk: 10-12 min	Drive: 25-30 min

Mid-Range Hotels (£130-£230 per night)

Hotel	Travel to MetLife Stadium	Travel to Liberty State Park
Fairfield Inn by Marriott East Rutherford	Walk: 5-7 min	Drive: 25-30 min
Residence Inn East Rutherford Meadowlands	Walk: 5-7 min	Drive: 25-30 min
Homewood Suites by Hilton East Rutherford	Drive: 5 min	Drive: 25-30 min
Hilton Meadowlands	Drive: 5 min	Drive: 25-30 min

Luxury Hotels (Above £300 per night)

Hotel	Travel to MetLife Stadium	Travel to Liberty State Park
The Knickerbocker (Times Square)	Drive: 25-30 min	Drive: 20-25 min
Tribeca Grand Hotel	Drive: 30 min	Drive: 10-15 min
Conrad New York Downtown	Drive: 25-30 min	Drive: 10-12 min
Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown	Drive: 30 min	Drive: 10-12 min

Smart tip: Planning an extended stay or travelling with a group? Consider an Airbnb or short-term rental. Whatever you choose, book early – rates climb and availability vanishes as the tournament approaches.

Getting to New York/New Jersey

Flying from the UK

Most UK travellers fly direct from London Heathrow to either John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) or Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). The flight takes around 7-8 hours, with both airports offering multiple transport options into the city.

From JFK, the AirTrain JFK connects to the NYC Subway (E, J, Z, A lines) and Long Island Rail Road (LIRR). Travel time to Manhattan runs about 45-60 minutes depending on your route. From Newark, the AirTrain Newark links to NJ Transit and Amtrak, reaching Penn Station in roughly 30-40 minutes.

Prefer direct service? Uber and Lyft operate extensively at both airports with designated pick-up zones. A ride to Manhattan typically costs $60-$80 from JFK and $50-$70 from Newark, depending on traffic. Yellow cabs are also available with flat fares from JFK to Manhattan (around $70, including tolls and tip).

Navigating New York

New York is highly walkable, especially in Manhattan, but for longer distances, the subway proves fastest and most affordable. A 7-day unlimited MetroCard costs around $34 and covers subways and local buses.

CitiBike is a popular bike-share program, with electric scooters available in some boroughs. Driving is possible but parking is expensive and traffic is intense, especially near stadiums and major event zones – best avoided unless absolutely necessary.

Travelling Between Eastern Region Host Cities

New York/New Jersey anchors the Eastern Region alongside Atlanta, Boston, Philadelphia, Miami, and Toronto – all connected via Amtrak, America’s primary rail network. Train journeys require patience, but Amtrak provides comfortable seating and often scenic routes.

Prefer flying? Flights between these host cities run frequently and affordably, especially with Delta and Southwest Airlines. Domestic flights are generally the fastest way to travel between Eastern Region venues, saving considerable time if you’re working against the clock.

Road trips remain an option, though they consume substantial time, as shown below:

Route	Distance	Driving Time
New York → Philadelphia	95 miles (150 km)	2 hours
New York → Boston	215 miles (345 km)	4-5 hours
New York → Toronto	500 miles (800 km)	8-9 hours
New York → Atlanta	870 miles (1,400 km)	13-15 hours
New York → Miami	1,300 miles (2,100 km)	18-20 hours

New York’s Football Journey

Historically, New York has played a pivotal role in American football’s rise. The sport dates back to the late 1800s when European immigrants arrived in New York and New Jersey, bringing their passion for the game with them.

In 1971, the New York Cosmos were founded and quickly became America’s most iconic football team. Their profile soared after signing football legend Pelé, transforming the Cosmos into a commercial powerhouse and offering a glimpse of the game’s potential in America. However, when the club disbanded in 1985, New York was left without a major team for years.

That changed in 1994 with the founding of the New York/New Jersey MetroStars, now widely known as the New York Red Bulls. Despite attracting international legends including Roberto Donadoni, Lothar Matthäus, and Youri Djorkaeff, the team struggled to find consistency in MLS and failed to capture trophies during this star-laden era. However, following the statement signing of ex-Arsenal and Barcelona great Thierry Henry in 2010, the Red Bulls won their first major trophy, the Supporters’ Shield, just three years later.

The Red Bulls dominated the New York football scene until 2015, when City Football Group-owned New York City FC joined MLS. Backed by massive investment, NYCFC attracted global stars including ex-Serie A standout Andrea Pirlo, Chelsea legend Frank Lampard, and former Barcelona striker David Villa, establishing themselves as a rising force not only in New York but throughout MLS.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many World Cup fixtures will New York/New Jersey host?

New York/New Jersey will host 8 World Cup matches, including five group-stage games, one Round of 32 encounter, one Round of 16 clash, and the final, making it one of the tournament’s most high-profile venues.

When can I buy World Cup tickets for New York/New Jersey?

World Cup tickets are currently available through the Fanatix website. Specific fixture tickets will go on sale shortly following the draw.

Can I purchase multiple match tickets for New York/New Jersey?

Yes, though you’ll complete separate transactions for each match. The system doesn’t feature a shopping cart, so each game requires its own order process.

Which airports serve New York/New Jersey?

Three major airports serve the region: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). All connect directly to major cities throughout North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America.

How do I reach downtown New York City from the airports?

From JFK, take the AirTrain to the subway or Long Island Rail Road. From LaGuardia, buses connect to the subway. From Newark, the AirTrain links to NJ Transit trains. Taxis and rideshares are available from all airports, with travel times ranging from 30-60 minutes depending on traffic.

What are the distances from New York/New Jersey to other host cities?

Here are approximate distances from New York/New Jersey to other host cities:

• Boston – 215 miles (345 km)
• Philadelphia – 95 miles (150 km)
• Toronto – 500 miles (800 km)
• Atlanta – 870 miles (1,400 km)
• Miami – 1,280 miles (2,060 km)
• Dallas – 1,550 miles (2,495 km)
• Houston – 1,620 miles (2,610 km)
• Kansas City – 1,200 miles (1,930 km)
• Los Angeles – 2,800 miles (4,505 km)
• San Francisco Bay Area – 2,900 miles (4,665 km)
• Seattle – 2,850 miles (4,585 km)
• Guadalajara – 2,250 miles (3,620 km)
• Mexico City – 2,090 miles (3,365 km)
• Monterrey – 1,950 miles (3,140 km)
• Vancouver – 2,800 miles (4,505 km)

Air travel is clearly the practical option for visiting multiple host cities, particularly over longer distances.

Can I travel by train from New York to other host cities?

Train service via Amtrak reaches nearby cities like Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. For longer distances, flying proves faster and more practical.

What’s the best way to move around New York City during the World Cup?

Use a combination of subway, buses, walking, and rideshares. The NYC subway system is extensive and runs 24/7. Buses cover areas not served by subway. Bike-sharing and ferries are also available.

Which New York neighborhoods work best for World Cup visitors?

Midtown Manhattan, Lower Manhattan, and Brooklyn are excellent picks. Midtown is central and close to major attractions. Lower Manhattan offers historic sites and nightlife. Brooklyn provides a more local vibe with easy stadium access via public transport.

When should I book New York accommodation for the World Cup?

Book immediately if possible. Rates will surge and rooms will disappear as the tournament nears. Many hotels provide flexible cancellation policies, letting you secure your spot now and adjust if plans change.

Where will New York’s official Fan Festival take place?

The official Fan Festival will occupy Central Park, one of the city’s most iconic locations with easy public transport access.

Do I need tickets for the New York Fan Festival?

No tickets necessary. The Fan Festival is free and open to everyone.

What should I expect at the New York Fan Festival?

Giant screens broadcasting live matches, musical performances, food trucks, sponsor exhibits, interactive activities, and merchandise vendors. It’s designed to be family-friendly and welcoming to supporters of all ages.

What are New York City’s top attractions?

Must-see spots include the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Times Square, Central Park, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Where can I watch other World Cup matches in New York without attending?

Catch games at the Fan Festival or local football bars including Smithfield Hall, The Football Factory at Legends, and Banter Bar. Numerous hotels and restaurants will also broadcast matches.

What’s New York’s weather like during the World Cup in June?

Expect warm and humid conditions, with typical highs around 82°F (28°C) and lows near 65°F (18°C). Occasional rain showers are possible.

What should I pack for a New York World Cup trip?

Bring light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a reusable water bottle, and a rain jacket or umbrella. A light jumper may prove useful for cooler evenings or indoor venues.

Is New York City safe at night?

New York is generally safe in busy areas, particularly near the stadium and Fan Festival. Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid isolated streets, and travel with others when feasible.

How long is the London to New York flight?

Direct flights from London to New York take approximately 7-8 hours. British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and American Airlines provide direct service between Heathrow and JFK or Newark.

What’s New York’s time zone?

New York operates in the Eastern Time Zone (ET), which is UTC−5 during standard time and UTC−4 during daylight saving time. The city will be on daylight saving time in June.

How do I travel between MetLife Stadium and the New York Fan Festival?

MetLife Stadium sits in East Rutherford, New Jersey, roughly 10 miles west of Manhattan. Take NJ Transit trains from Penn Station to Secaucus Junction, then transfer to shuttle buses. Rideshares and stadium shuttles will also operate. Travel time typically runs 30-45 minutes.

Other World Cup 2026 Venues in the United States

City	Stadium	Key Matches
Los Angeles	SoFi Stadium	Semi-final, Quarter-final
Dallas	AT&T Stadium	Quarter-final
Atlanta	Mercedes-Benz Stadium	Quarter-final
Houston	NRG Stadium	Group Stage, Round of 16
Kansas City	Arrowhead Stadium	Group Stage, Round of 16
Philadelphia	Lincoln Financial Field	Group Stage, Round of 16
Miami	Hard Rock Stadium	Group Stage, Round of 16
San Francisco	Levi’s Stadium	Group Stage, Round of 16
Seattle	Lumen Field	Group Stage, Round of 16
Boston	Gillette Stadium	Group Stage