New Jersey is the official home of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, on July 19, 2026. Despite the "New York / New Jersey" venue branding, the stadium is physically in New Jersey — about 5 miles west of Manhattan.
- Total matches
- 8 (including FINAL)
- Venue
- MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ
- Capacity
- 82,500 — largest US venue at the WC
- Final date
- July 19, 2026
Why New Jersey and not New York?
MetLife Stadium was selected because it has by far the largest capacity of any East Coast venue (82,500), modern infrastructure, easy NJ Transit access from Manhattan (15-minute train), and FIFA's preference for a single-final venue with proven hosting record. New York State has no comparable football stadium — the Giants and Jets moved out of NYC decades ago.
Other matches at MetLife
- Multiple group-stage matches (likely heavy-hitter teams)
- Round of 16
- Quarter-Final
- Semi-Final
- The FINAL — July 19, 2026
How to think about "New Jersey" as a host
Most fans will base themselves in NYC (Manhattan) and commute to matches via NJ Transit. The 15-minute train from Penn Station to Meadowlands is the most popular route. Hotels in Manhattan will be significantly cheaper than the few options near the stadium in East Rutherford.
About New Jersey
New Jersey ranks 11th in US population (9.5M) but 1st in population density. It borders New York to the north, Pennsylvania to the west, Delaware to the south. The state capital is Trenton — but the WC venue is in East Rutherford, in the populous Bergen County in the north.
Learn more about New Jersey on our state page.
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Is the 2026 World Cup Final in New Jersey?
Yes, the Final is at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on July 19, 2026. Despite being branded as "New York / New Jersey", the venue is physically in New Jersey.
How many matches will New Jersey host?
8 matches at MetLife Stadium, including the Final, plus a Semi-Final, Quarter-Final, Round of 16, and several group-stage matches.
How far is MetLife from New York City?
About 5 miles. 15-minute NJ Transit train from Penn Station (NYC) to Meadowlands. Walking distance from Manhattan: not realistic.
What state is the 2026 World Cup Final in?
New Jersey. East Rutherford, specifically. The "New York / New Jersey" branding refers to the broader NYC metro area.