New York City to Host Free World Cup Events for Soccer Fans

NEW YORK — New York City is set to host a series of free events for soccer fans who are eager to experience the thrill of the World Cup but are unable to afford the high prices of match tickets, city officials announced on Monday.

The events will take place in each of the city’s five boroughs and will feature watch parties for the matches along with other festivities. Locations include Rockefeller Center in Manhattan, the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens, Brooklyn Bridge Park in Brooklyn, a shopping center near Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, and a minor league baseball stadium in Staten Island.

In addition to these free events, a separate fan gathering at the Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey, home to the New York Red Bulls, will require a $10 admission fee.

While World Cup matches will be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, the cost of transportation to and from the venue via public transit could amount to as much as $150.

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, a passionate soccer fan, emphasized the importance of ensuring that every supporter has the opportunity to enjoy the tournament without financial constraints. He made the announcement of the free events alongside New York Governor Kathy Hochul, both of whom are members of the Democratic Party.

Similar fan events are also being organized in other U.S. cities that are hosting World Cup matches.