World Cup Fans Could Win Final Tickets, Prizes Just By Shopping Local In NJ

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ — The FIFA World Cup 2026 New York New Jersey Host Committee on Tuesday launched a free rewards program aimed at connecting millions of fans expected to attend matches this summer with small businesses across the region.

The Welcome World Rewards Program, announced at the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce's ReNew Jersey Business Summit & Expo, will allow fans to earn points by visiting participating small businesses through digital check-ins. Points can be redeemed for prizes, including tickets to FIFA World Cup matches, sporting and entertainment events, FIFA merchandise and access to official Host Committee fan experiences.

The program is free for businesses to join. Applications open March 31 through the Host Committee's website. The fan-facing platform launches May 25.

"Small businesses are at the heart of our region's economy and identity," said Alex Lasry, CEO of the New York New Jersey Host Committee. "The Welcome World Rewards Program creates a fun, interactive way for local fans and the millions of visitors coming to our region to engage with local businesses."

Participating businesses may offer discounts or tournament-themed promotions through the platform. Fans who visit businesses across all 21 of New Jersey's counties and New York City's five boroughs will be eligible for up to eight match experiences as guests of the Host Committee, including two tickets to the World Cup Final at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19.

New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill said the program would help ensure World Cup visitors engage directly with local shops and restaurants.

"This innovative platform will help small businesses benefit from increased economic activity while giving fans an authentic taste of everything that New Jersey and the region have to offer," Sherrill said.

The Host Committee projects the FIFA World Cup will generate $3.3 billion in economic impact for the region. The rewards program is designed to distribute visitor spending beyond traditional tourist destinations and into neighborhood commercial corridors, according to the Host Committee.

The program complements several other regional initiatives, including the New Jersey Economic Development Authority's World Cup Community Initiative, Empire State Development's Community World Cup Grant Program and the Association for a Better New York Foundation's World Cup for All Community Grant Program.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off June 11.

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