New York to host free World Cup fan zones as tennis venue transforms into football hub

Mon 27th Apr, 2026 22:24

USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center will transform from tennis to football this summer after New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced it will host the city’s main free fan zone for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Queens venue is expected to accommodate up to 10,000 fans daily between June 11 and June 27, forming part of five fan zones spread across the city’s boroughs. Additional locations include Rockefeller Center in Manhattan, Brooklyn Bridge Park, the Bronx Terminal Market and Staten Island University Hospital Community Park.

“These events were not initially set to be free, but the world’s game should belong to the world,” Mamdani said, confirming the decision to make all fan zones free amid concerns over rising ticket prices.

The initiative comes as organisers look to ensure broader access to the tournament, with officials acknowledging that many supporters may be priced out of attending matches. The fan zones will feature live screenings, food vendors and cultural activities throughout the competition.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul said the wider region is preparing for more than one million visitors and an estimated $3.3 billion economic boost. Plans also include extended bar hours, outdoor watch party permits and community events.

The New York-New Jersey area will host eight matches, including the final on July 19, as the World Cup runs from June 11 across the United States, Mexico and Canada.

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New York to host free World Cup fan zones as tennis venue transforms into football hub

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