Being selected to host eight games, including the final, at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
obviously will have a huge economic impact on the state.
But it’s not the only selection that will have such an impact.
Four nations — Brazil, Haiti, Morocco and Senegal — have announced they will
establish their base camps in the state, using the facilities for at least a month during
the tournament, which runs June 11-July 19.
The selection of team base camps is expected to generate meaningful economic and
tourism activity, including hotel stays, local business growth, and global exposure for
host communities, while creating opportunities for residents to engage with the
tournament beyond matchdays.
A look at where they will be:
Nation: Brazil
Location: RWJBH Red Bulls Performance Center (Morris Township)
The background: The recently opened training center spans 32 hectares, includes two
natural grass pitches and a modern team building designed to meet professional
football standards.
The quote: “The Training Center is new, modern and offers all the conditions for our
work, before and during the World Cup. I want to thank Red Bulls for welcoming us and
showing us all the space, which was also sought after by other teams,” Brazil Head
Coach Carlo Ancelotti said.
Nation: Haiti
Location: Stockton University (Galloway)
The background: Stockton provides a supportive, high-quality training environment
while offering access to regional venues and meaningful opportunities for community
and fan engagement. The campus features a 1,500-seat stadium with a grass pitch, a
multi-purpose sports center that includes training facilities, fitness areas and meeting
spaces.
The quote: “This recognition affirms the strength of our athletic facilities and the
dedication of our staff, who have worked tirelessly to create an environment where the
world’s best athletes can train, learn and feel at home,” Stockton President Joe
Bertolino said.
Nation: Morocco
Location: The Pingry School (Basking Ridge)
The background: The Pingry School also served as a training site during the 1994 FIFA
World Cup, reinforcing the region’s longstanding role in supporting teams competing on
the world stage. The Miller Bugliari ’52 World Cup Field, home of Pingry Football, has
long served as a training venue for top clubs and was renovated in 2025. It now
features two international-standard grass pitches, modern amenities and an athletics
center designed for elite preparation.
The quote: “We are excited to be able to support a team competing at the highest level,
and we’re proud that our facilities can provide an environment that meets their needs,”
Tim Lear, Head of School, The Pingry School, said.
Nation: Senegal
Location: Rutgers University (Piscataway)
The background: Senegal will base its tournament preparations at Rutgers University,
New Jersey’s flagship public research university, reflecting the role of public institutions
in supporting world-class international events and generating pride across the state.
The Miller Practice Fields at Rutgers University provide two Kentucky Bluegrass
pitches, with a sand base supported by modern irrigation and drainage, and premier
athletic facilities.
The quote: “New Jersey is the number one state in the country for soccer interest, and
we’re excited that the state’s flagship university will host these world-class athletes,”
Rutgers President William Tate said.
Alex Lasry, CEO of the New York New Jersey Host Committee, said the decision
demonstrates the depth of its training infrastructure, regional accessibility and readiness
to support teams throughout the entire tournament.
“When teams from three different continents choose New York New Jersey as their
home away from home, it reflects the global strength of our region,” he said. “As one of
the most diverse regions in the world, these teams will be welcomed to communities
that already know and celebrate them, creating an atmosphere of pride and connection
throughout the tournament. We look forward to their arrivals, which will drive economic
impact and increased tourism while showcasing the diversity, infrastructure, and
connectivity that make New York New Jersey ready to host the world.”
