Advocates for Hosting the World Cup Final on the Grandest Stage: New York and New Jersey's Stance

 

New York City Mayor Eric Adams, along with New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, is advocating for the 2026 World Cup Final to be played on the world's biggest stage. The United States, Canada, and Mexico are set to co-host the event, and the focus now lies on selecting the venue for the final match.

Among the potential host cities, Dallas, Houston, Miami, Los Angeles, and New York/New Jersey are vying for the opportunity. The $5.5 billion SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles and New York/New Jersey are considered early frontrunners, but Adams and Murphy firmly believe that there is only one suitable choice.

According to a recent YouGov survey of professional soccer fans across the U.S., 21% preferred New York/New Jersey as the location for the final, followed by Los Angeles with 17% and Miami with 10%. However, 25% of those surveyed expected Los Angeles to be awarded the marquee match, while New York/New Jersey received 23% of the votes.

The final decision on the World Cup Final's location is expected to be announced by FIFA later this year.

Adams and Murphy emphasize that New York/New Jersey is well-equipped to co-host such a significant event, as demonstrated in their joint effort to stage the 2014 Super Bowl. The 82,000 seat MetLife Stadium would be the venue for the final match, with celebratory events taking place on both sides of the Hudson River.

One of the key selling points in the New York/New Jersey bid is the region's diversity and experience in hosting major events. Additionally, New York's status as one of the world's largest media markets and its infrastructure's ability to accommodate a large number of visitors bolster their case.

Adams assures that New York/New Jersey is a welcoming place, where players and teams from around the world will feel at home due to the diverse communities present in the region.

However, there are concerns about recent headlines regarding violent crime in the area. Adams and Murphy acknowledge these concerns but aim to present the real story and emphasize that the region is, in fact, the safest big city in America, boasting one of the finest police departments globally, and well-prepared to handle large events.

In conclusion, New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy are confident in their bid to host the 2026 World Cup Final, highlighting the region's strengths and addressing any potential challenges to make it an unparalleled and unforgettable event.