NEW JERSEY — More than 750 free tickets to FIFA World Cup 2026 matches at MetLife Stadium will be distributed to New Jersey residents through a partnership involving Gov. Mikie Sherrill, the FIFA World Cup 2026 New York New Jersey Host Committee and several private-sector organizations.
The announcement was made Tuesday at Hackensack University Medical Center, where officials also unveiled a FIFA World Cup-themed mural created by artist Richard Tu, designer of the official New York New Jersey FIFA World Cup 2026 Host City Poster.
Officials said 770 tickets will be distributed for five group-stage matches and two knockout-round matches scheduled to be played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford.
“We are excited to welcome the world to the Garden State for the World Cup starting this week and to be at the very center of the festivities, but we want the experience, first and foremost, to be accessible and affordable for as many New Jerseyans as possible,” said New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill. “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. I will always fight to ensure that no New Jerseyan is left behind.”
According to officials, 500 tickets will be distributed through a partnership involving the Governor’s Office, the host committee, Uber and Choose New Jersey. Recipients will include youth soccer players from underserved communities, families of deployed New Jersey National Guard members, Make-A-Wish patients receiving care through Hackensack Meridian Health and Bergen County first responders involved in World Cup operations.
An additional 200 tickets will be provided to frontline health care workers and pediatric patients, including children facing serious illnesses and their families, through a collaboration with Hackensack Meridian Health.
The remaining 70 tickets will be distributed through the Host Committee’s Welcome World Rewards program, which rewards participation in community events and support of local businesses.
“Over the past few weeks, we have worked closely with Governor Sherrill and corporate partners to secure additional tickets for the people of New Jersey,” said Alex Lasry, CEO of the New York New Jersey Host Committee. “I’d like to thank the Governor for her leadership in ensuring that hundreds of New Jersey residents have the incredible opportunity to take part in this once-in-generation moment. And I’d like to thank Uber and Hackensack Meridian Health for stepping up to help us deliver these tickets. Working together through a public-private partnership, we are ensuring that the benefits of the World Cup flow to every corner of our region.”
Officials said the ticket initiative comes in addition to $3.6 million in funding the Host Committee is providing to support transportation costs associated with the World Cup.
“New Jersey will be at the center of the world’s biggest sporting event, and Uber is proud to partner with Governor Sherrill, the NYNJ Host Committee, and Choose New Jersey to help make sure more residents can be part of this once-in-a-generation moment,” said Adam Blinick, Head of U.S. and Canada Public Policy and Communications at Uber. “These tickets will give families, young soccer players, service members’ loved ones, first responders, and patients the chance to experience the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026 firsthand — and we’re grateful to help open that door for communities across the Garden State.”
Hackensack Meridian Health CEO Robert C. Garrett said the health system is proud to support the effort while preparing for the demands associated with hosting one of the world’s largest sporting events.
“Hackensack Meridian Health is proud to support Governor Sherrill, New Jersey and the NYNJ Host Committee in bringing the excitement of the World Cup to fans, including some of our patients and team members,” Garrett said. “As the closest Level 1 trauma center to the stadium, our team members have been actively preparing to support the complex medical and safety operations for an event of this magnitude. Their expertise is the foundation of our medical readiness, and their compassion will ensure our communities and visitors are safe and cared for. We are proud to celebrate their commitment by providing them with an opportunity to enjoy the World Cup in person.”
The New York New Jersey region will host eight FIFA World Cup 2026 matches, including the tournament final.
