2022 FIFA World Cup semi-finalists Morocco have secured an in-demand base in New Jersey for the 2026 global soccer showpiece. The FIFA World Cup roars to life in Mexico City on 11 June as co-hosts Mexico take on Bafana Bafana.
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill joined Moroccan Ambassador Youssef Amrani and FIFA World Cup Host Committee CEO Alex Lasry to announce that Morocco will base its tournament operations at The Pingry School in Basking Ridge.
State officials say the decision highlights New Jersey’s role as a key hub for the World Cup, with matches scheduled at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford.
“This is a major moment for New Jersey. We’re welcoming the world, and highlighting our communities on a global stage,” said Sherill.
Morocco is scheduled to face Brazil at MetLife Stadium on June 13, one of the tournament’s marquee group-stage matchups.
WHY PINGRY’S CAMPUS IS THE BEST BASE FOR MOROCCO?
Interestingly, Pingry’s campus served as a training base during the 1994 World Cup, hosted by the United States. The facility has recently undergone upgrades, including two international-standard grass fields and expanded athletic facilities for elite competition.
Officials stated that the selection highlights the region’s infrastructure and cultural connections. New Jersey is home to approximately 10,000 residents of Moroccan heritage.
Ambassador Amrani described the decision as an opportunity to strengthen ties between Morocco and the United States.
“Football has a unique power to bring people together,” Amrani said. “We look forward to building lasting connections throughout this journey.”
Morocco will be joined by three other national teams, with training in New Jersey at sites including Morris Township, Stockton University, and Rutgers University during the tournament. Senegal will also be based at Rutgers University, underscoring a strong African presence in the state. The Teranga Lions are scheduled to face France and Norway in their group fixtures, including matches at MetLife Stadium.
Meanwhile, Brazil will train at the Columbia Park Training Centre in Morris Township, and Haiti at Stockton University, making New Jersey one of the tournament’s busiest football hubs.
2026 will see several firsts, as three nations – Canada, Mexico and the USA – will co-host, and a record 48 teams will take part.
The Atlas Lions open their campaign against Brazil on June 13 at MetLife Stadium, before facing Scotland on June 19 at Gillette Stadium. Their final group clash is set for June 24 against Haiti at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
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