World Cup 2026 New York fan zone announced

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be a historic celebration, spanning three nations for the first time.

Sixteen cities across Canada, Mexico, and the United States will co-host the tournament from June 11 to July 19, 2026. This expanded event features 48 teams divided into twelve groups of four.

The top two teams from each group, plus the eight best third-placed teams, will advance to a round of 32, leading to 104 total matches.

In New York, Mayor Zohran Mamdani, alongside State and FIFA officials, announced the largest fan zone for the World Cup Final on July 19th.

The fan zone at Central Park will accommodate 50,000 ticketed fans for free. During the announcement, Mamdani gave a heartfelt shout-out honoring South Africa’s 2010 World Cup hosting, specifically celebrating Durban in particular.

The fan zone will feature tons of exciting activities, ensuring fans stay entertained and thrilled throughout the entire tournament.

From live music to interactive games and food stalls, every moment promises joy and excitement. This inclusive initiative blends global football history with New York’s vibrant energy, making the final accessible and unforgettable for fans from every corner of the world.

New York/New Jersey MetLife Stadium will host eight matches, including the final on July 19, 2026.

The eight matches:

June 13, 2026 – 6:00 p.m. ET – Brazil vs. Morocco (Group C)

June 16, 2026 – 3:00 p.m. ET – France vs. Senegal (Group I)

June 22, 2026 – 8:00 p.m. ET – Norway vs. Senegal (Group I)

June 25, 2026 – 4:00 p.m. ET – Ecuador vs. Germany (Group E)

June 27, 2026 – 5:00 p.m. ET – Panama vs. England (Group L)

June 30, 2026 – 5:00 p.m. ET – Round of 32 (TBD)

July 5, 2026 – 4:00 p.m. ET – Round of 16 (TBD)

July 19, 2026 – 3:00 p.m. ET – Final (TBD)