Where is the World Cup being played again?
The northeastern United States is set to host eight World Cup games, including the final, under the banner of “New York New Jersey” as designated by FIFA. However, this joint title has sparked a rivalry among local elected leaders who are debating the exact location.
New Jersey and New York City jointly submitted a bid and secured the hosting rights, though New York state officials have increasingly joined in the discussions. This has led to a mix of friendly and serious competition between politicians from both states.
Officially, the matches will take place at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Nonetheless, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has made bold statements, asserting that “New York is not just hosting the World Cup, New York is the World Cup.”
This claim holds some weight, as the majority of fans are expected to stay and explore New York between games. Meanwhile, New Jersey feels these comments add to a longstanding perception of being overshadowed by its larger neighbor. The Garden State continues to seek recognition.
New Jersey Representative Josh Gottheimer has taken to social media to address this issue, teasing Governor Hochul by saying, “If you’re planning to watch a FIFA match in New York, you’ll be SOL.”
In response, New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill advocated for changes to a temporary sign at MetLife Stadium, suggesting it read “New Jersey New York” instead of “New York New Jersey.” She shared a brief video showing the updated sign, stating, “For those keeping score at home, the World Cup is in New Jersey. And now the sign reflects that.”
The use of the New York-New Jersey label is not a novel concept.
Former U.S. national team goalkeeper Tony Meola, who hails from nearby Kearny, New Jersey, expressed his dislike for the combined label, having experienced it while playing for the New York/New Jersey Metrostars, now known as Red Bull New York.
“I grew up there, I played there — it’s New Jersey,” Meola expressed. “That’s just my opinion.”
