With the world’s biggest sporting event just days away, the FIFA World Cup 2026™ New York New Jersey Host Committee has officially launched the “Welcome World Rewards Program.” This region-wide initiative rewards both local residents and visiting soccer fans with exclusive prizes—including highly coveted match tickets—simply for exploring the region and supporting local businesses.
By checking in digitally at participating mom-and-pop shops, cultural landmarks, and neighborhood fan events, participants can rack up points to unlock a massive treasure trove of experiences.
To kick things off, the Host Committee announced it is immediately offering 20 extra chances for early participants to win tickets to the region’s first two opening matches at New York New Jersey Stadium on June 13 and June 16.
The program uses geofencing technology, allowing users to check in on their smartphones when they are physically inside a participating business or community event.
In addition to the chance to attend World Cup matches as special guests of the Host Committee, points can be redeemed for an array of high-value sports and entertainment prizes, including:
- Legends Experiences: VIP behind-the-scenes venue tours and private lunch experiences with New York sports icons.
- Pro Sports Memorabilia & Tickets: Signed merchandise and game tickets from the New York Giants, Knicks, Rangers, Islanders, Liberty, Gotham FC and NYCFC.
- Concert Passes: Tickets to major music events at MetLife Stadium, UBS Arena, and Sports Illustrated Stadium.
The rewards program is tightly integrated with New Jersey’s World Cup Community Initiative, a state-backed grant program designed to fund locally led cultural programming during the tournament.
“The World Cup is an opportunity for New Jersey to showcase everything that makes our state special — our small businesses, our downtowns, our diverse communities, and the people who make them thrive,” New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill said. “We’re encouraging residents and visitors alike to explore every corner of New Jersey while helping ensure the economic benefits of this historic event are felt far beyond the stadium.”
The NYNJ Host Committee is tasked with delivering eight total matches during the tournament, culminating in the highly anticipated World Cup Final. Organizers view the rewards program as a vital tool to ensure local shopkeepers benefit from the massive influx of global tourism.
“Every time someone visits a participating business, attends a community event, or explores a new part of the region, they’re helping create economic opportunities,” Alex Lasry, CEO of the Host Committee, said. “We’ll continue introducing new rewards, experiences, and opportunities throughout the tournament.”
The interactive rewards program will run live through the end of the tournament.
- Sign Up: Fans can join by scanning official “Welcome World” QR codes displayed at participating regional businesses or by visiting the Host Committee’s website.
- Check In: Users earn points by visiting local businesses and opening the app to digitally check in within the location’s designated perimeter.
- Win: Accumulated points can be directly redeemed or entered for high-value gear, concert tickets, and World Cup match seating.
