World Cup games to bring $3.3B to local NY, NJ economy: report
UPDATE: New York and New Jersey are gearing up for an economic surge of $3.3 billion as the FIFA World Cup returns to the U.S. next year, the first time in over three decades. The report, released just moments ago by the NY/NJ Host Committee, highlights the transformative impact of this global event, with MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ, set to host eight matches, including the highly anticipated final.
The tournament, scheduled from June 11 to July 19, 2026, is projected to draw 1.2 million tourists to the New York-New Jersey area, generating $1.3 billion in labor income and $1.7 billion in spending from enthusiastic fans. This expanded 48-team tournament is expected to be the most attended in FIFA history, with an estimated 6 million fans flocking to host cities across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
“It’s a legacy-defining opportunity to create lasting economic and social impact for New York and New Jersey,” stated Alex Lasry, CEO of the NYNJ Host Committee. He emphasized the potential for record tourism, global visibility, local investment, and job creation, affirming that this tournament will help shape the region’s future significantly.
The report forecasts the creation of over 26,000 jobs across New York and New Jersey to support the influx of visitors and the event’s operations. Additionally, host states are expected to collect $432 million in state and local tax revenues, further bolstering the local economy.
Other U.S. cities like Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Miami, and Seattle will also host matches, but New York and New Jersey are positioned to benefit immensely from the World Cup’s spotlight.
As excitement builds, former President Donald Trump expressed optimism about the event during a recent FIFA task force meeting, suggesting that heightened international tensions could add to the thrill of the tournament. “Tensions are a good thing,” he remarked, hinting at the competitive spirit expected from participating nations.
With the U.S. last hosting the prestigious tournament in 1994, the upcoming World Cup is poised to leave a lasting legacy on the local economy and the spirit of soccer in America.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as preparations ramp up for what promises to be an unforgettable summer of soccer in 2026.
