While the world’s elite players will be battling it out at MetLife Stadium this summer, New York City’s kids are getting their own turf. Mayor Zohran Mamdani has officially announced that streets outside of 50 NYC schools will be transformed into “Soccer Streets” to celebrate the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In partnership with the non-profit Street Lab, these pop-up activations are designed to make the World Cup spirit accessible to every neighborhood–especially for those who might be priced out of the $100+ NJ Transit fares and skyrocketing ticket costs.
What to Expect at Soccer Streets
These aren’t just road closures; they’re full-blown soccer festivals. The activations will include:
- Pickup games and professional-style soccer drills
- Flag painting and soccer-themed art stations
- Community gatherings focused on the “joy of the game”
When & Where are They Happening?
The Soccer Streets program is an extension of the DOT’s Open Streets for Schools initiative.
- Dates: The activations officially kicked off on May 1 and will run through June 26 (the final day of the public school year)
- Locations: While a full list of the 50 specific schools hasn’t been released, the city confirmed that schools with existing car-free spaces are being prioritized. Currently, there are about 68 school streets citywide, with early activations already spotted at schools like P.S. 32 in the Bronx
Mamdani said in a statement:
We want every kid in this city to experience the joy of the game. Soccer Streets takes that energy directly into our neighborhoods — closing streets to cars, opening them to play and making sure this celebration isn’t reserved for people who can afford a ticket.
How Your School Can Get Involved
If you want your local school to join the roster, the city is still accepting interest.
Public schools can request to have their adjacent streets closed to vehicle traffic for outdoor programming and World Cup festivities by contacting Street Lab.
More World Cup Magic in NYC
If you aren’t a student, don’t worry–the city has more up its sleeve for the 2026 games:
- Five Official Fan Zones: One massive, free watch-party site will be located in each borough
- MetLife Matches: Eight games will be played just across the Hudson between June 11 and July 19, including the highly anticipated World Cup Final
Whether you’re a die hard fan or just here for the car-free vibes, it’s shaping up to be a historic summer for NYC’s streets. Oh, and don’t forget FOX Sports is paying one lucky New Yorker $50,000 to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup! Here’s how to apply.
