New Jersey Enhances Alcohol Licensing Ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has signed legislation enhancing the state’s alcoholic beverage licensing framework to support operations at host venues in New Jersey as the state prepares for global sporting events including the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup and 2026 FIFA World Cup at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford.

The legislation permits alcohol licensing exclusively for global sporting events, expanding all-inclusive areas at New Jersey’s largest venues while maintaining public safety standards. The new licensing framework will apply to venues over 50,000 seats located on public property.

“New Jersey could not be more thrilled to welcome to world to the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup 2025 and FIFA World Cup 2026 matches,” said Murphy. “As we continue to plan for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, we want to provide the greatest possible entertainment experience for our guests this summer and next. By modernizing our alcoholic beverage licensing framework, we can cement New Jersey’s legacy as an ideal destination for global events while also serving as an economic engine for the state and region.”

The FIFA World Cup matches played at MetLife Stadium in 2026, including the final, are projected to generate over $2 billion in economic impact for the NYNJ region. It’s expected that the tournaments will bring well over one million visitors to the region.

“We thank Governor Murphy and the bill’s sponsors for the state’s continued support of FIFA World Cup 2026, the biggest sporting event in the world, and all events at MetLife Stadium,” said Ron VanDeVeen, MetLife Stadium president and CEO. “The new licensing framework streamlines the process which is both timely and essential and reflects the state’s commitment to enhancing the fan experience for guests attending the nine FIFA Club World Cup 25 matches and eight FIFA World Cup 26 matches, including back-to-back finals.”

The bill will also allow for the sporting facility license to establish up to five all-inclusive areas within the licensed sporting facility.

“With the world’s biggest sporting event coming up, delivering an unforgettable fan experience is our top priority,” said Alex Lasry, CEO of the FIFA World Cup 26 New York New Jersey Host Committee. “We’re grateful to Governor Murphy and the bill’s sponsors for their leadership in enhancing the fan experience and regional impact.”