World Cup 26 Group Stage HQ at Billie Jean King National Tennis Center Opens Today June 11^th 2026.Family-Friendly State-Led Viewing Events on Long Island this Friday and in the Mid-Hudson on July 16 .

$20 Million in State Funding for Free Fan Events in All Five Boroughs of New York City, Including Free Watch Party in Central Park for World Cup Final

12 Community-Based Projects Across the State Through New York State Community Grant Program to Facilitate Free Public Viewings .Reduced NYNJ Stadium Bus Transportation Fare from the Initial $80 Round-Trip Price to $20

Additional MTA Subway Service on Match Days and to Free Group Stage HQ Event in Queens; Ample Service on LIRR and Metro-North for Fans to connect to match day Shuttle Bus and Trains

World Cup One-Day Permit from New York State Liquor Authority to Allow Off-Site Activations and Expanded Outdoor Activations.  Passed Legislation to Allow Bars and Restaurants to Operate Until 4 a.m. from June 11 through July 20, 2026.

Securing 500 Free Tickets for Working Families with Kids, First Responders and Military Families.

Launched $6 Million NY Kicks: A World Cup Legacy Investment Fund Aimed at Building Soccer Fields in Disadvantaged Communities Across the State.

Collaboration of Forces to Ensure Safety and Security Preparedness throughout the Region during the Tournament.

To kick off the start of FIFA World Cup 2026™, Governor Kathy Hochul and the NYNJ Host Committee today highlighted activations across New York State to ensure New Yorkers in every community get to enjoy the World Cup.

From statewide watch parties to reduced bus fares and launching NY Kicks to ensure lasting impact, the Governor and the NYNJ Host Committee have taken steps to deliver a more accessible FIFA World Cup 2026™ experience.

Today’s event marked the official opening of the NYNJ World Cup 26 Group Stage HQ at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center which will be free to all.

“The time has finally come to welcome the 2026 FIFA World Cup to New York and I could not be more proud of the work we have done to bring the celebrations to every corner of our state,” Governor Hochul said.

“From increased hours for bars and restaurants to reduced bus fares, we are committed to working with partners across the state to make sure everyone can participate in the festivities in a way that is fun, safe and accessible throughout the duration of the tournament.”

NYNJ Host Committee CEO Alex Lasry said, “From day one, Governor Hochul has approached the World Cup as an opportunity that should benefit every New Yorker.

Whether it’s making transportation more affordable, creating free fan experiences across the state, expanding access to tickets for working families, or investing in soccer facilities that will serve communities long after the Final, she has consistently focused on ensuring this tournament leaves a lasting impact.

The World Cup is finally here, and thanks to the Governor’s leadership, New Yorkers will have opportunities to celebrate, participate, and be part of this historic moment.”

You can come and enjoy the festivities, and so much activities, and we have to thank our Great Governor, Mayor, and many more people to make this possible for all of us.

The first game was played in Mexico, and it was against, Mexico VS South Africa, which

Mexico won by 2 goals.

I am personally am a big fan of Brazil and Argentina, I will be there to support my teams.

See More about FIFA World Cup 2026 by NYNJ Host Committee free for all at Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, and many more locations throughout New York State, in our World Liberty TV, Sports Blogs by clicking here.