An estimated 2 billion people will watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 final which, along with seven other World Cup matches, will be played at MetLife Stadium in the Meadowlands. The stadium will be known as New York New Jersey Stadium in accordance with FIFA policies regarding sponsored names of stadiums.
FIFA and state leaders expect a $2 billion economic impact in New Jersey, along with a chance for nearby communities to draw tourists and make money.
“This is an enormous opportunity for us to showcase what I call the Greater Meadowlands region, and all the communities,” said Jim Kirkos, president and CEO of the Meadowlands Regional Chamber at the organization’s annual tourism conference on Thursday. “It’s a great place to work, a great place to do business, a great place to live. And we have the opportunity, with the influx of people coming for the World Cup, to show them just what a great place it is here.
“Our goal is to make sure every hotel room is filled in the region, and that local restaurants and attractions and Main Street businesses and all the communities get to embrace this big game.”
“We all have to be ready to know that there are going to be six million people coming to this city [and region] wanting to be celebrated and entertained,” said Iris Diaz, brand and marketing director for FIFA World Cup 2026.
“The last World Cup final was viewed by the same amount of people as the last 13 Super Bowls combined,” said Alex Lasry, CEO of the New York New Jersey Host Committee.
