Inside the Yearslong Push to Bring the World Cup Final to New Jersey
In a significant lead-up to the highly anticipated World Cup, MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, recently hosted several matches for the 2025 Club World Cup, serving as a vital test run for the grand tournament. This event not only showcased the stadium’s capabilities but also provided a glimpse into the excitement and logistics that fans can expect during the World Cup. The Club World Cup, which features top club teams from around the world, is a precursor to the World Cup, allowing organizers to refine their operations and ensure a seamless experience for players and spectators alike.
During the Club World Cup matches, fans experienced a vibrant atmosphere filled with international flair, as teams from various countries competed. The stadium, renowned for hosting major events including Super Bowls and concerts, was transformed into a global soccer arena, highlighting its versatility and readiness for the World Cup. The games drew significant crowds, offering a taste of the electric energy that will accompany the World Cup, which is set to feature an expanded format with more teams and matches than ever before.
Key preparations were evident as organizers tested everything from crowd management and security protocols to concessions and transportation logistics. For example, the seamless entry and exit of fans were closely monitored, ensuring that lessons learned would be applied to improve the overall experience during the World Cup. Additionally, the event served as a platform for local businesses to engage with soccer fans, further enriching the community and economy. As the world looks forward to the 2025 World Cup, the successful execution of these Club World Cup games at MetLife Stadium stands as a promising indicator of what’s to come.
In what was considered a dry run for the World Cup, several games of the 2025 Club World Cup were played at MetLife Stadium, in East Rutherford, N.J.
