New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy extended an invitation to former President Donald Trump to attend the upcoming Club World Cup final, scheduled for July at MetLife Stadium. Murphy made this announcement during a celebratory event marking one year until the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. The governor shared details of his conversation with Trump, highlighting ongoing communication between the Trump administration and local organizers concerning preparations for the World Cup.
While Murphy emphasized the invitation extended to Trump, he noted uncertainty about the former president’s ability to attend the event. “I’m not sure he could come,” Murphy remarked, indicating that while the invitation was made, the logistics of Trump’s schedule might prevent his presence. The White House did not immediately comment on the invitation or the discussion, leaving the response somewhat ambiguous.
The Club World Cup is a prestigious tournament featuring the top 32 teams from various domestic leagues internationally. The tournament is set to kick off with a match between Inter Miami and Al Ahly in Miami, before shifting to MetLife Stadium, which will host nine matches including quarterfinals, semifinals, and the final on July 13. This series of games is anticipated to draw a substantial crowd, as Governor Murphy predicted an attendance of 40,000 to 50,000 for the opening match between Palmeiras and FC Porto.
Murphy expressed enthusiasm for the tournament, describing it as an opportunity to showcase the region’s capacity to host major international events. He views the Club World Cup as a significant precursor to the forthcoming World Cup, which will use the summer tournament as a final preparation phase. The 2026 event is expected to draw extensive participation and excitement while fostering a sense of unity among the co-hosting nations.
During the same event, held at Liberty State Park in Jersey City, Murphy confidently asserted that the upcoming World Cup matches will not only be successful but will also ensure the safety of all attendees. His comments reflect a broader optimism regarding the ability of the New York/New Jersey region to manage the influx of visitors and the logistical challenges associated with hosting high-profile international sports events.
Overall, Murphy’s invitation and the ongoing preparations underscore New Jersey’s commitment to providing an outstanding experience for athletes and fans alike. As the countdown to the World Cup continues, both the Club World Cup and the subsequent World Cup represent significant milestones for the region and showcase its potential for global sporting events.
