NYC Mayor Mamdani Announces $50 World Cup Tickets for Residents

Zohran Mamdani has announced a special low-cost ticket initiative for New York City residents ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, offering selected fans the chance to attend matches for just $50.

Speaking at an event in Harlem’s “Little Senegal” neighborhood, Mayor Mamdani said the New York City administration and the New York-New Jersey Host Committee for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have jointly reserved 1,000 special tickets for city residents. The initiative aims to ensure that working-class and everyday New Yorkers can take part in one of the world’s biggest sporting events.

Under the program, each ticket will cost only $50. Ticket holders will also receive free round-trip bus transportation to and from MetLife Stadium, where several World Cup matches will be held. The program will cover five group-stage matches and two knockout-round matches taking place in New York and New Jersey, with approximately 150 tickets allocated for each match.

Mayor Mamdani said, “The World Cup is happening right in our backyard. We want to make sure working New Yorkers can also be part of this historic event.”

According to the city administration, New York City residents aged 15 and older will be eligible to enter a lottery for the tickets. Registration will open at 10 a.m. on Monday, May 25, and continue until midnight on Saturday, May 30. Interested residents can apply through the official registration website. Winners will be announced on June 3, and each selected applicant will be allowed to purchase up to two tickets.

Officials said the tickets will be non-transferable in an effort to prevent scalping and resale at inflated prices. Tickets will be distributed directly to winners at designated bus pickup points on match day.

New York City World Cup Czar Maya Handa said the initiative is designed to connect working-class residents, immigrant families, and ordinary New Yorkers with the excitement and historic atmosphere of the tournament.

Alex Lasry praised Mayor Mamdani’s initiative, saying the move would help make the World Cup more accessible and affordable for local residents.

Meanwhile, Yusef Salaam highlighted Harlem’s multicultural identity and said the initiative carries special significance for immigrant and African communities.

Analysts believe the 2026 FIFA World Cup will bring millions of visitors and global attention to the New York-New Jersey region. In that context, New York City’s effort to ensure broader public participation has already received widespread praise.