NY Gives 500 Free World Cup Tickets to Families and Heroes

Hundreds of New York families will get to witness soccer history thanks to a new program making the 2026 FIFA World Cup accessible to everyone.

Governor Kathy Hochul and the NYNJ Host Committee announced they're giving away 500 free tickets to the World Cup matches at New York New Jersey Stadium. The tickets will go to working families with children, first responders, and military families through partnerships with the Alliance of New York State YMCAs and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

Each ticket comes with a free round-trip shuttle bus pass, removing another barrier that might keep families from attending. The tickets were secured by the NYNJ Host Committee with support from Uber.

"The World Cup is one of the biggest events on the planet, and it shouldn't just be for those who can afford the hottest ticket in town," Governor Hochul said. She emphasized that New Yorkers should be part of this historic moment happening in their own backyard.

YMCAs across New York City, Long Island, Westchester, and Rockland counties will distribute tickets to children in economically disadvantaged areas. The goal is to create once-in-a-lifetime memories for young people who might never get another chance to see the world's best athletes compete at this level.

The Ripple Effect

This initiative extends beyond just one day at the stadium. Kyle Stewart, Executive Director of the Alliance of New York State YMCAs, sees it as part of a larger movement to bring families together through shared experiences. The program connects to Governor Hochul's Unplug and Play initiative, which encourages young people to get active and build community connections.

Frank Siller, Chairman and CEO of Tunnel to Towers, praised the opportunity for America's heroes to experience world-class soccer in their home state. First responders and military families often sacrifice time and resources serving their communities, making this free experience especially meaningful.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will bring fans from every corner of the globe to New York, and now hundreds of local families will be right there with them, cheering in the stands.