MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey will stage the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final on July 19, 2026. Set inside the Meadowlands Sports Complex just across the river from Manhattan, this modern venue blends massive capacity, all-weather design, and big-event pedigree—making it a fitting stage for world football’s biggest night.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | 2026 FIFA World Cup |
| Match | Final (Match 104) |
| Date | July 19, 2026 |
| Venue | MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey, United States |
| Capacity | 87,157 |
| Setting | Meadowlands Sports Complex, near New York City |
Why MetLife Stadium Is the Perfect Final Venue
Scale and sightlines: With a listed capacity of 87,157, MetLife delivers the size and energy demanded by a global final. Multi-tiered seating bowls concentrate the noise toward the pitch, while expansive concourses and multiple entrances help fan flow.
Big-event resume: The stadium has hosted the Super Bowl, top-tier soccer friendlies, college football showcases, outdoor ice hockey, and mega concerts featuring Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Elton John, and The Rolling Stones. That track record translates to polished operations on the sport’s biggest day.
Location advantage: The New York metropolitan area offers unmatched entertainment, dining, and attractions. Fans coming for the final can pair matchday with world-class museums, Broadway shows, iconic landmarks, and diverse neighborhoods—turning a single game into a full destination experience.
Matches Assigned to MetLife Stadium
MetLife isn’t just the final—it’s a key tournament hub. Based on the schedule framework provided, the stadium is set to host the following encounters:
| Match No. | Stage (indicative) |
|---|---|
| 7 | Early round |
| 17 | Early round |
| 41 | Group/knockout threshold |
| 56 | Mid-tournament |
| 67 | Mid-to-late stage |
| 77 | Late stage |
| 91 | Late stage |
| 104 | Final – July 19, 2026 |
Note: The final is explicitly scheduled for July 19, 2026 at MetLife Stadium.
Stadium Experience Essentials
- Access & arrival: Aim to arrive early. Large-scale events at the Meadowlands benefit from staggered entry; early arrival helps you enjoy pre-match atmosphere and reduces queue times.
- Food & beverage: Expect a broad mix of concessions reflecting the metro area’s diversity, from quick-serve classics to premium offerings.
- Merch & mementos: Official tournament outlets typically appear at key concourse nodes—shop before kickoff or after the final whistle to avoid halftime crowds.
- Comfort tips: Hydration, layered clothing, and comfortable footwear are smart choices for a full matchday that includes pre-game build-up and the trophy ceremony.
Nearby Urban Highlights (Make the Most of New York)
- Manhattan icons: Times Square, Central Park, and the city’s skyline viewpoints offer easy pre- or post-match excursions.
- Dining spectrum: From Michelin-starred rooms to neighborhood favorites, the metro area serves every palate and budget.
- Culture & shopping: Museums, galleries, and flagship retail corridors let traveling fans turn matchday into a multi-day city break.
FAQ: Final Day at MetLife Stadium
Where is the 2026 World Cup Final?
At MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, near New York City.
What’s the date of the final?
July 19, 2026.
How big is the stadium?
The listed capacity is 87,157.
Which matches are scheduled there besides the final?
Matches 7, 17, 41, 56, 67, 77, 91, and 104 (Final).
The 2026 FIFA World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium combines a colossal venue, proven event operations, and the magnetic pull of New York City. For fans, it’s a dream blend of elite football and world-class urban adventure—all culminating on July 19, 2026.