The countdown to the historic FIFA World Cup 2026 is officially on, and the New York-New Jersey region is solidifying its status as the heartbeat of the global tournament.
Beyond hosting eight highly anticipated matches at New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium)—including the crown jewel World Cup Final on July 19—the region has officially emerged as a primary base of operations for several of the world’s most iconic footballing nations.
According to a major announcement from the New York New Jersey Host Committee, the region will host one of the largest concentrations of official Team Base Camps in North America.
Four powerhouse national teams representing four different continents have locked in their training headquarters right here in the Garden State, transforming the local landscape into a vibrant, international soccer hub weeks before the official June 11 kickoff.
Which Teams Are Training in New York and New Jersey for the 2026 World Cup?
The depth of the region’s elite infrastructure and massive cultural diversity has drawn top-tier talent from around the globe.
The host committee confirmed that Brazil, Haiti, Morocco, and Senegal have officially selected their tournament homes in New Jersey.
Instead of flying in just for matchdays, these squads will live, eat, and train deep within local communities, creating an unprecedented atmosphere of soccer passion across the state.
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Brazil (South America): The five-time world champions are returning to the country where they lifted the trophy in 1994. The Seleção will base their high-stakes tournament preparations at the brand-new, state-of-the-art Columbia Park Training Center in Morris Township, New Jersey. The massive 32-hectare complex features pristine natural grass pitches and modern amenities tailored to professional standards. “The training center is new, modern and offers all the conditions for our work,” noted Brazil Head Coach Carlo Ancelotti.
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Morocco (Africa): Coming off historic international runs, Morocco has chosen the top-tier sports facilities at The Pingry School in Basking Ridge to serve as their primary base.
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Senegal (Africa): The African powerhouse will set up its strategic tournament headquarters at Rutgers University in Piscataway.
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Haiti (North/Central America): Haiti will bring its passionate fanbase to South Jersey, selecting Stockton University in Galloway for its team base camp.
Major Economic and Community Impact Predicted for NY/NJ
The decision by these globally renowned teams to anchor themselves locally is expected to trigger a massive windfall for regional business owners.
This massive operational footprint extends the World Cup’s impact far beyond the physical stadium doors in East Rutherford.
Local economies will benefit from extended hotel stays for athletes, trainers, and traveling international media.
Furthermore, thousands of die-hard soccer fans are expected to flood local businesses, restaurants, and fan zones to catch a glimpse of their favorite players.
Host committee CEO Alex Lasry emphasized how the region’s diverse community makes it a seamless fit: “When teams from four different continents choose New York New Jersey as their home away from home, it reflects the global strength of our region. These teams will be welcomed to communities that already know and celebrate them.”
When Does the World Cup Action Start at New York New Jersey Stadium?
Local fans won’t have to wait long to see these hometown base camp selections translate onto the pitch.
World Cup action hits the local turf almost immediately after the opening ceremonies.
Brazil will play a highly anticipated Group Stage match at the New York New Jersey Stadium right out of the gate on June 13.
Just a few days later, Senegal will take center stage under the East Rutherford lights, facing off against France on June 16, followed by a crucial matchup against Norway on June 22.
With elite squads moving into the neighborhood and the legendary World Cup Final locked in for July, the New York-New Jersey metro area is officially the epicentre of the football world this summer.
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