To Kick Off the FIFA World Cup, Governor Hochul and the NYNJ Host Committee Highlight Activations Across the State for New Yorkers to Enjoy Once-in-a-lifetime Event

To kick off the start of FIFA World Cup 2026™, Governor Kathy Hochul and the NYNJ Host Committee today highlighted activations across New York State to ensure New Yorkers in every community get to enjoy the World Cup. From statewide watch parties to reduced bus fares and launching NY Kicks to ensure lasting impact, the Governor and the NYNJ Host Committee have taken steps to deliver a more accessible FIFA World Cup 2026™ experience. Today's event marked the official opening of the NYNJ World Cup 26 Group Stage HQ at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center which will be free to all.

"The time has finally come to welcome the 2026 FIFA World Cup to New York and I could not be more proud of the work we have done to bring the celebrations to every corner of our state," Governor Hochul said. "From increased hours for bars and restaurants to reduced bus fares, we are committed to working with partners across the state to make sure everyone can participate in the festivities in a way that is fun, safe and accessible throughout the duration of the tournament."

NYNJ Host Committee CEO Alex Lasry said, "From day one, Governor Hochul has approached the World Cup as an opportunity that should benefit every New Yorker. Whether it's making transportation more affordable, creating free fan experiences across the state, expanding access to tickets for working families, or investing in soccer facilities that will serve communities long after the Final, she has consistently focused on ensuring this tournament leaves a lasting impact. The World Cup is finally here, and thanks to the Governor's leadership, New Yorkers will have opportunities to celebrate, participate, and be part of this historic moment."

World Cup Watch Parties and Fan Fests

Two New York State flagship World Cup Watch Experiences will be taking place at Stony Brook University on Long Island and at Kensico Dam Plaza in the Mid-Hudson Region. The free events will take place on June 12 at Stony Brook University on Long Island and July 19 at Kensico Dam Plaza in Westchester County, timed to coincide with key tournament matches.

Free fan events in all five boroughs of New York City:

• USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, Flushing Meadows: June 11-27
• Rockefeller Center: July 6-19
• Bronx Terminal Market: June 13-14
• Brooklyn Bridge Park: June 13-July 19
• Staten Island University Hospital Community Park: June 29-July 2

Find more information and RSVP for the New York City fan fests

12 community-based projects statewide, including free public viewings at Silo City in Buffalo,will receive grant funding from the New York State Community World Cup Grant Program. More than $371,000 in grants will facilitate events designed to bring residents and visitors together while driving economic activity and increasing visitation to local businesses.

Reduced Bus Fares For Fans

Significantly reducing bus fares for fans traveling to and from World Cup matches from $80 to $20, and 20 percent of bus tickets are reserved for New York residents.

Additional MTA Services Throughout New York City Metro Area

Expanded subway service and fully scheduled commuter rail trains throughout the region on all matchdays and throughout the tournament, supporting visitors to the region and the millions of New Yorkers who rely on mass transit to get around every single day.

Helping Small Businesses Capitalize on Economic Benefits of the World Cup

Making it easier for event organizers to serve alcohol at off-site activations for the duration of the World Cup by applying for a World Cup One-Day Permit through the New York State Liquor Authority.

Allowing bars and restaurants to use contiguous outdoor space to host events during the World Cup as opposed to the current maximum of four days.

Authorizing a temporary expansion of permissible operating hours during the World Cup, so that bars, restaurants and other eligible on-premises establishments can remain open whenever matches are broadcast live.

Securing Free Tickets for Working Families with Kids, First Responders, and Military Families

500 free tickets given to working families with kids, first responders, and military families through the Alliance of New York State YMCAs and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Each ticket will come with a free round-trip shuttle bus ticket to New York New Jersey Stadium.

Expanding Soccer Access Across the State

Launching the $5 million NY Kicks: A World Cup Legacy Investment Fund aimed at building soccer infrastructure in disadvantaged communities across each region of the state to strengthen neighborhoods and bring people together through a shared love of the game.

$1 million in additional funding providing NY Kicks recipients with fund programming, equipment, training, and other operating costs to maximize use of these new facilities including uniforms, shin guards, soccer balls, and coaches.

Ensuring Safety and Security Preparedness

Supporting the deployment of NYPD officers and Subway Co-Response Outreach Teams (SCOUT) across the subway system to target areas of greatest need and to enhance rider safety.