NEW JERSEY TOURISM ANTICIPATES HUGE VISITOR IMPACT FROM FIFA WORLD CUP 26™ FINAL

The Garden State Is Ready to Wow the World

TRENTON, NJ, February 15, 2024 – The Sunday, Feb. 4 announcement of MetLife Stadium as the host venue for the FIFA World Cup 26™ Final has the New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism (NJTT) ready to wow the world with everything the Garden State has to offer, according to New Jersey Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way and NJTT Executive Director Jeffrey Vasser.

“We are ready to welcome the world to the incredible state of New Jersey,” said Lt. Gov. Way, who oversees tourism in her dual role as New Jersey Secretary of State. “The tournament is expected to generate an economic impact of more than $2 billion to the New Jersey and New York region. This is an exciting opportunity for our local businesses, and one that will create a proud legacy for Garden State residents.”

“The awarding of the FIFA World Cup 26 Final to New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium is an incredible honor,” said NJTT Executive Director Jeff Vasser. “Through this hosting opportunity, we are expected to welcome over 1 million visitors to the area, both ticket and non-ticket holders. We are looking forward to wowing guests with our numerous nearby attractions, shopping centers and world-class hotels and restaurants.”

The FIFA World Cup 26™ Final will be played in New Jersey at MetLife Stadium on July 19, 2026. MetLife Stadium will host a total of eight World Cup matches: five in the Group Stage, one in the Round of 32, one in the Round of 16 and the Final.

The Division of Travel and Tourism will be developing resources for FIFA World Cup 26™ visitors to learn more about travel to the state ahead of the tournament, including on its website: www.VisitNJ.org.

“The FIFA World Cup 26 announcement is certainly timely with our current marketing campaign, ‘Little State, Lotta Wow’,” said Vasser. “New Jersey may be considered a small state, but it is packed with a diversity of cultural arts and culinary experiences that are sure to not only impress first-time visitors but our longtime friends, as well.”

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About New Jersey

New Jersey offers a wide variety of experiences to visitors all year long. Travelers and residents can enjoy outdoor adventures, renowned culinary offerings, educational opportunities, and a strong arts and cultural scene. With numerous state and national parks, beaches, skiing, tax free shopping, historic sites, museums and more, New Jersey blends together its rich history and exciting present. Home to the nation’s first beach resorts and the birthplace of major inventions, New Jersey offers a picturesque escape and dynamic opportunities for visitors from near and far. For more information, visit www.vistnj.org.