With the world's biggest sporting event kicking off this week, New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill and the FIFA world cup 2026™ New York New Jersey Host Committee have announced that more than 750 free tickets will be given directly to New Jersey communities.
The initiative, funded entirely through a public-private partnership at no cost to taxpayers, will distribute 770 total tickets across five Group Stage matches and two Knockout Round matches at New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium).
The ticket distribution is split into three targeted community programs supported by corporate partners:
- 500 Community Tickets (Supported by Uber & Choose New Jersey): Distributed to youth soccer players from underserved communities, families of deployed New Jersey National Guard service members, Hackensack Meridian Health patients in the Make-A-Wish program, and local Bergen County first responders.
- 200 Healthcare Heroes & Pediatric Tickets (Supported by Hackensack Meridian Health): Awarded to frontline nurses and healthcare team members, as well as pediatric patients and families facing serious childhood illnesses.
- 70 Local Small Business Tickets (Welcome World Rewards Program): Available to residents who support local businesses, visit participating establishments, and attend official World Cup community events.
“We want the experience, first and foremost, to be accessible and affordable for as many New Jerseyans as possible,” Governor Sherrill said during an announcement event at Hackensack University Medical Center. “I’d like to thank the Host Committee, Uber, and Hackensack Meridian Health for providing over 750 free tickets to New Jerseyans who deserve a once-in-a-lifetime chance to attend these matches.”
The ticket giveaway follows a recent $3.6 million funding agreement provided by the Host Committee to help the state cover local World Cup transportation costs.