The New York New Jersey Host Committee has named three high-profile athletes as official ambassadors for the FIFA World Cup 2026, as the region prepares to host the tournament’s final and multiple matches.
Former New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, U.S. Women’s National Team and Gotham FC star Midge Purce, and New York Knicks guard Josh Hart will serve as Official NYNJ World Cup 2026 Ambassadors, helping promote the region in the lead-up to and during the global event.
The announcement comes as the countdown continues toward the World Cup final, which will be held July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium.
As ambassadors, Manning, Purce and Hart will support fan engagement, community initiatives and regional programming aimed at showcasing New York and New Jersey on the world stage.
“Having played my entire football career here I’ve seen firsthand what makes New York and New Jersey special,” said Manning. “I know what it’s like to play on the biggest stage in American sports so to host the world for the FIFA World Cup, including the Final at MetLife Stadium, is an incredible honor. I’m looking forward to showcasing everything this area has to offer.”
“Soccer has a unique ability to connect people across every culture and community possible, to have the FIFA World Cup here in New York and New Jersey is incredibly special,” said Purce. “Most importantly, it’s an opportunity to grow the game by inspiring the next generation, and making sure people feel like they’re part of it, whether they’re in the stadium or playing in their own neighborhood.”
“As someone who’s long loved the beautiful game, it’s incredible to see the biggest tournament in the world coming right here to our backyard,” added Hart. “When you combine that global fandom with what’s already the best sports region in the world, it’s going to be something special.”
Officials said the ambassadors will play a key role in shaping how the region welcomes visitors from around the world, highlighting the cultural and sporting significance of the event.
“The FIFA World Cup is more than a tournament—it’s a global moment shaped by the people and communities who host it,” said Alex Lasry, CEO of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ NYNJ Host Committee. “Eli, Midge, and Josh represent the very best of our region and they will play an important role in helping us deliver a World Cup experience that is inclusive, impactful, and truly reflective of New York and New Jersey.”
The host committee said additional ambassadors will be announced ahead of the tournament. Plans also include community-focused initiatives, particularly aimed at engaging underserved youth across the region.
New York and New Jersey are set to host eight matches during the 2026 World Cup, including the championship game, marking a major moment for the region on the global stage.
