Airbnb invests $1M in NYNJ World Cup 26 mini-pitches, events

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The basics:

• Airbnb pledges $1M to support NYNJ Host Committee for World Cup 26
• Funds will create youth soccer mini-pitches; support two community events
• Hosts will welcome 25,000 guests, generating $288M in projected GDP impact
• Initiative aims to leave a lasting benefit for local communities beyond the tournament

As part of its partnership with FIFA for the upcoming World Cup 26, Airbnb announced a $1 million commitment to support the NYNJ Host Committee and its local communities.

As NJBIZ reported in June, Airbnb struck a multiple-tournament partnership with FIFA. That agreement spans this past summer’s FIFA Club World Cup 2025, next summer’s FIFA World Cup 26 and the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027. Under that partnership, Airbnb will serve as the Official Alternative Accommodations and Experiences Booking Platform and Supporter for the FIFA World Cup 26.

Airbnb estimates its hosts will welcome 25,000 guests across the tri-state area during next summer’s tournament. The region will feature eight matches, including the Final at MetLife Stadium; an official Fan Fest at Liberty State Park in Jersey City; as well as a slew of activations and programming throughout the 39-day tournament.

The online lodging marketplace projects that activity will generate $288 million in gross domestic product (GDP), support over 1,100 full-time equivalent jobs through 2026, and deliver nearly $6,000 in supplemental income to each local host.

Profit sharing

A key part of the agreement is the Airbnb Host City Impact Program. The $5 million initiative supports projects in host cities that foster economic growth. It aims to ensure residents benefit from hosting the historic event beyond tournament.

This $1 million investment, which comes through that Airbnb Host City Impact Program, will fund five new soccer mini-pitches to support youth soccer. Located in New Jersey, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island, the effort comes in collaboration with the U.S. Soccer Foundation. The funding will also support two community celebrations – in the Bronx and Queens – during the tournament.

Announced Oct. 1 at a community event in Brooklyn, in partnership with the NYNJ Host Committee, the commitment drew community leaders, elected officials and local youth.

“New York and New Jersey will welcome the world next summer, bringing in $228 million to the tri-state area from short-term rentals alone,” said Jay Carney, global head of policy and communications, Airbnb. “Our goal is to make sure communities across the tri-state area share in the benefits. This investment creates spaces that are accessible for everyone to come together and cheer on their favorite teams or step onto the pitch to play themselves.”

A once-in-a-generation opportunity

Airbnb says it will announce additional host city projects in the lead-up to the tournament.

NYNJ Host Committee CEO Alex Lasry said that hosting the FIFA World Cup is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for the region.

“And this investment ensures that its impact will be felt well beyond the tournament,” said Lasry. “We want this World Cup to inspire the next generation, teaching them life skills that only sports can offer, while hopefully motivating the next stars of U.S. Soccer.”

“Since its inception, the NYNJ Host Committee has been working to ensure that this global event leaves a positive and lasting impact for youth across New York and New Jersey,” said Ed Foster-Simeon, president and CEO, U.S. Soccer Foundation. “We’re thrilled that Airbnb is investing in creating mini-pitches to provide easier access to safe places to play where youth can develop critical life skills, create bonds with their peers, and learn and grow alongside coach-mentors.

“These new mini-pitches will provide lasting benefits for generations to come.”

Lasry added, “Through today’s announcement, we are creating pathways for young people to learn, grow, and lead through the power of the game.”