New Jersey Governor Sherrill Announces Shift in World Cup Fan Fest Plans

omidbasir- In a surprising announcement, New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill confirmed on Thursday that the scheduled fan fest will not proceed as originally planned. Instead, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) and the FIFA World Cup 26 New York-New Jersey Host Committee will collaborate on a new initiative that will allocate $5 million towards community programs for soccer fans.

According to state officials, this initiative will now prioritize “high-impact” fan events that benefit small businesses throughout New Jersey, rather than focusing solely on one location in Jersey City. The original plan, unveiled in 2025, envisioned Liberty State Park hosting all 104 matches of the tournament, which will be jointly held by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

“New Jersey is the beating heart of the 2026 World Cup, and this initiative ensures that every New Jerseyan—no matter where they live—can be a part of this once-in-a-generation moment,” Sherrill stated in a press release to NBC. “From fan zones to neighborhood watch parties to street fairs, we are committing to the communities and small businesses that make New Jersey extraordinary. The World Cup is coming to our state, and we are determined to ensure it belongs to New Jerseyans first.”

New Jersey, home to MetLife Stadium, is poised to be a central hub for this summer’s World Cup, culminating in the state hosting the tournament final. In addition to the finale, MetLife Stadium will accommodate seven additional matches, including crucial games in the Round of 32 and Round of 16.

During the group stage, the state is scheduled to host matches featuring Brazil against Morocco on June 13, France versus Senegal on June 16, Norway facing Senegal on June 22, Ecuador competing against Germany on June 25, and Panama going up against England on June 27.

Fans who had purchased tickets for the previously planned fan fest will be eligible for refunds, according to NBC.