BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Team Morocco will base its tournament preparations at The Pingry School in Basking Ridge for the duration of the FIFA World Cup 2026, announced Gov. Mikie Sherrill, Moroccan Ambassador to the United States Youssef Amrani and FIFA World Cup 2026 NYNJ Host Committee CEO Alex Lasry.
This places Somerset County in the middle of the region’s World Cup preparations as New Jersey gets ready to host teams and visitors during the 2026 tournament.
Morocco will face Brazil at MetLife Stadium on June 13, bringing a marquee Group Stage matchup to the region.
"New Jersey is thrilled to welcome Morocco – and the rest of the world – to our state for the FIFA World Cup 2026™. New Jersey is home to almost 10,000 residents of Moroccan descent, so we are especially honored that Team Morocco has decided to make our state its home away from home this summer. It is a true testament to New Jersey's exciting role at the center of the World Cup," said Sherrill. "We look forward to showcasing New Jersey on the global stage this summer and creating memories that will last a lifetime for our residents and visitors."
Ambassador Amrani also pointed to the school’s role in the team’s plans.
"It was a distinct honor and great pleasure to meet Governor Sherrill today. We had very interesting and fruitful exchanges at the heart of Morocco’s officially announced future team base in New Jersey, The Pingry School," said Ambassador Amrani. "My deepest gratitude goes to the State of New Jersey and The Pingry School for their exceptional hospitality. Football possesses a unique power to unite nations, and we look forward to fostering enduring bonds throughout this journey."
Pingry also served as a training site during the 1994 FIFA World Cup. The Miller Bugliari ’52 World Cup Field, home of Pingry Football, was renovated in 2025 and now includes two international-standard grass pitches, modern amenities and an athletics center designed for elite preparation.
Three other national teams will set up camp in New Jersey during the tournament. Those teams have not yet been announced.
Their planned base sites are Columbia Park Training Facility in Morris Township, Stockton University in Galloway and Rutgers University in Piscataway.
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