Julia Burns

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Apr 27, 2026, 10:53 PM

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Updated

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It's the final countdown until the 2026 FIFA World Cup comes to the United States, and with high ticket prices, city officials say they're launching free fan events so people can have the excitement even without a ticket.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Gov. Kathy Hochul say there will be a designated venue in each borough. They say there will be things like live watch parties, cultural events, opportunities for local businesses to get involved and more.

Director of Brooklyn Force Soccer Club Danny Segelin says it's a great way for people to get involved in the sport.

“Soccer's for the fans, it's for the people. And it's my belief that ticket prices shouldn't be this high, but they are. And so this is a way for us to still be able to enjoy things without having to spend, you know, your entire weekly paycheck," said Segelin.

Queens - USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, Flushing Meadows

• June 11–27

• Daily programming and match viewings

The Bronx - Bronx Terminal Market

• June 13–14

• Matchday programming and local cultural programming

Brooklyn - Brooklyn Bridge Park

• June 13 - July 19

• Daily Programming and match viewings

Manhattan - Rockefeller Center

• July 6–19

• Daily programming; extended hours during Finals Week

Staten Island - Hospital Community Park

• June 29–July 2

• Daily programming and evening match viewings

With the region estimated to generate more than $3.3 billion in economic activity throughout the event, Reme Kurtaj, general manager of Dumbo Oyster Bar, says he hopes local businesses will score too.

"I think it's going to be very good and we can't wait to see it. I think it's good for every single business around here, especially in Brooklyn," said Kurtaj.

Segelin says it'll be a special event for many New Yorkers, including his players and the sport itself.

“It's going to mean even more to all these kids because they're so much more invested than we ever were. And I think that this is the springboard for something really great here in this country for soccer," said Segelin.

In total, the events will be a 39-day celebration for people and businesses to enjoy the World Cup.

The events last through the tournament, which starts on June 11 and ends on July 19.