Poll of US fans finds New York New Jersey as preferred venue for 2026 World Cup final

July 20 – A survey of fans across the US has found that fans want to see New York New Jersey as the host for the World Cup 2026 Final at the MetLife Stadium.

The survey was commissioned by the New York New Jersey FIFA World Cup 2026 Host Committee, in partnership with pollster YouGov.

A total of 516 professional soccer fans from across the country were polled with 21% expressing more interest in visiting the New York New Jersey region than any other host city; of the 11 mentioned cities, only two others – Los Angeles (17%) and Miami (10%) – were cited by more than 1 in 10 fans when asked about their preference for the Final location.

“This research backs up a simple fact — the world wants to come to New York and New Jersey. This is where players want to lift the trophy and where fans want to experience all that our incredibly diverse, culturally rich region has to offer,” said New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy.

The 2026 World Cup will hosted in three countries, and 16 host cities, with 48 teams playing 104 matches.

FIFA is expected to announce the location for marquee games, including the final, later this year.

A total of 42% of those surveyed indicated FIFA’s potential site selection of MetLife Stadium would result in a more favourable feeling within the US towards FIFA, “while significant shares of soccer fans cited New York New Jersey’s welcoming attitude and diverse population reflecting the global makeup of soccer’s fan base as top reasons to support the Host City’s bid for the Final,” said a bid statement.

“The survey confirmed what we’ve always known to be true: The world’s biggest game deserves to be played on the world’s biggest stage, and we look forward to providing the iconic backdrop the World Cup Final deserves here in New York City/New Jersey,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “We’re ready to host the Final here in our backyard and welcome the world to our region!”

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