Empire State Development announced on May 2 that it has secured regional partners to support two free public viewing events for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled for June 12 at Stony Brook University on Long Island and July 19 at Kensico Dam Plaza in Westchester County.
The initiative aims to increase community engagement and ensure that residents across New York can take part in the excitement of the World Cup, while also supporting tourism, youth sports, and local economic activity.
Hope Knight, President, CEO and Commissioner of Empire State Development, said, “Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York is making sure communities across the state can share in the excitement and opportunity of the 2026 World Cup. These free public events on Long Island and in Westchester will bring people together to celebrate the world’s game while supporting tourism, youth sports and regional economic activity.”
Justin Brannan, Governor Hochul’s Senior Director of Major Event Operations said: “Today’s announcement builds on Governor Hochul’s commitment to ensuring communities across New York share in the excitement and energy of the 2026 World Cup. Through these exciting new regional partnerships on Long Island and in Westchester, New York State will continue delivering free, accessible, and family-friendly community viewing experiences that bring people together and reflect what New Yorkers deserve.”
Regional partners include New York City FC, Westchester Soccer Club, The Island FC, Discover Long Island, Visit Westchester N.Y., U.S. Soccer Foundation, Optimum as well as venue hosts Stony Brook University and Westchester County. Both venues will feature live broadcasts of select tournament matches along with interactive soccer programming for families.
Brad Sims of New York City FC said: “Soccer is growing faster in the United States than ever before…We are proud to partner with Empire State Development to help make that a reality for communities from Long Island to Westchester…” Mitch Baruchowitz from Westchester Soccer Club stated: “Kensico Dam Plaza is going to be something truly special this July…” Fred Popp from The Island FC added: “We are proud to partner with Empire State Development and be part of bringing the World Cup home to Long Island.”
Other supporters highlighted their enthusiasm as well. Sean O’Connell from Optimum said they are “thrilled” about bringing live coverage to families; Audrey Gruber from News 12 emphasized their dedication “to sharing these moments with our local audiences.” Carly Musso from U.S. Soccer Foundation called such events “a powerful reminder” of soccer’s impact; Mitch Pally from Discover Long Island described them as a “powerful driver” for visitation; Natasha Caputo from Visit Westchester noted that “Westchester is proud” to host fans at Kensico Dam Plaza.
These efforts complement broader statewide programs such as the Community World Cup Grant Program and proposed NY Kicks: A World Cup Legacy Investment Fund aimed at expanding access to youth soccer facilities. The initiative also supports Governor Hochul’s Get Offline Get Outside campaign by encouraging outdoor gatherings.
Further details regarding event programming or registration will be released later. More information can be found through updates available via I LOVE NY.
