As summer approaches, cities across the United States, Mexico, and Canada are readying to host the highly awaited 2026 FIFA World Cup kickoff. But with exorbitant prices and disruptions ahead, local officials are battling to tame discontent as fans try to keep their eye on the ball.
On Monday, New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani and New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced that New York City, which is serving as a cohost to a series of World Cup soccer matches with New Jersey, will host free fan zones across the five boroughs.
The free programming aims to offset the high ticket prices that may gatekeep fans from attending the event. For instance, some tickets to the final match, which will be played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, cost up to $11,000 apiece.
“By bringing these free fan events to every borough, we’re making sure everyone can be part of that joy,” Mamdani said in a statement.
Fan zones for each NYC borough
In Queens, the fan zone will be set up at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center from June 11 to 27, with daily programming and live match viewing available to visitors.
For Brooklyn-based fans, a watch party will be set up at the Brooklyn Bridge Park from June 13 to July 19, whereas those in Staten Island can head to the Staten Island University Hospital Community Park from June 29 to July 2.
In Manhattan, a fan zone will be set up at Rockefeller Center from July 6 to 19, with extended hours during the tournament’s final week. And in the Bronx, another zone will be located at the Bronx Terminal Market from June 13 to 14, with some cultural programming and viewings.
