NJ's MetLife Stadium beats Dallas to Host FIFA 2026 World Cup Final

MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, has been chosen as the venue for the FIFA World Cup final in July 2026. This decision comes as a surprise, with SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles and AT&T Stadium in Dallas previously considered strong contenders. FIFA, the governing body of international soccer, announced this exciting news on Sunday. Home to the NFL's New York Giants and Jets, MetLife Stadium has now emerged victorious, securing the honor of hosting the most prestigious football match in the world.

Dallas will also play a significant role in the tournament, hosting more matches than any other city. In addition to serving as a host city, Dallas' AT&T Stadium will hold the semifinals on July 14, 2026. Meanwhile, SoFi Stadium will have the privilege of hosting the opening match for the U.S. team on June 12, igniting the tournament with excitement.

Prior to the final in New Jersey, the tournament will kick off with a match featuring the Mexican national team at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on June 11. Then, on July 19, football enthusiasts from around the globe will eagerly turn their attention to MetLife Stadium for the long-awaited final showdown.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Takes North America by Storm

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is poised to make history as the most inclusive and impactful tournament yet. With 104 matches spread across 16 state-of-the-art stadiums in Canada, Mexico, and the USA, this highly anticipated event promises to leave a lasting impression. According to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, months of meticulous planning have revolved around one focal point: the players and fans who will be at the heart of this game-changing tournament. From the iconic Estadio Azteca where the opening match will take place to the grand finale at New York New Jersey's breathtaking venue, every aspect has been carefully considered.

The battle for the coveted FIFA World Cup 2026 final was a fierce one, with New York-New Jersey supporters arguing their case as the standout choice. Their reasons? The region's rich global heritage, abundance of renowned landmarks and attractions, and exceptional transit options, as reported by The Athletic. The 82,500-seat open-air stadium designated for the final is expected to generate an astounding economic impact of over $2 billion for the New York-New Jersey area, as confirmed by the NYC Economic Development Corporation.

“Hosting the FIFA World Cup 26 Final will be a defining moment for New York New Jersey, solidifying its position as the world's biggest stage,” affirmed Mayor Eric Adams of New York City. This monumental sporting event will undoubtedly place the region in the global spotlight and present an unparalleled opportunity for growth and pride.

FIFA 2026 Match Schedule Unveiled

FIFA has announced the highly-anticipated match schedule for the 2026 World Cup, and it's clear that the United States will be at the heart of the action. Out of the 104 games set to take place during the tournament, a staggering 78 will be played on American soil. With multiple cities chosen as host venues, football enthusiasts can look forward to nine thrilling matches in Dallas, while the likes of New Jersey, Atlanta, and LA will each witness eight games. Houston, Boston, and Miami will get to host seven matches, followed closely by Seattle, San Francisco, Philadelphia, and Kansas City, Missouri, with six games each. The selected schedule and venues were carefully planned to ensure optimal rest for teams and minimal travel, while maximizing the chances of games being played in ideal conditions. FIFA also took fan travel time into consideration, recognizing the importance of creating an unforgettable experience for supporters.

This historic moment promises to ignite a wave of football development not only in the region but also around the globe. FIFA Vice President and President of CONCACAF, Victor Montagliani, expressed the immense significance of the event, stating, "The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be a watershed moment that will leave a lasting impact on the world of football. It's an occasion that unifies host cities, all sharing the same passion for the sport and eagerly awaiting the arrival of the world in June and July of 2026."