As the excitement builds toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup, New Jersey is stepping into the spotlight as a premier training destination for some of the world's top soccer nations. Governor Mikie Sherrill announced Tuesday that Haiti's national team will set up camp at Stockton University in Galloway Township, adding a South Jersey flavor to the global tournament preparations.
But Haiti is just one piece of a star-studded training lineup across the Garden State. Brazil, the five-time World Cup champions known for their iconic yellow jerseys and samba-style play, will sharpen their skills at Columbia Park in Morris Township. Senegal, Africa's reigning champions, will call Rutgers University in Piscataway their home base, while Morocco—the surprise semifinalists from the 2022 World Cup—will train at The Pingry School in Basking Ridge.
These announcements build on February's news that Ivory Coast, another African powerhouse, will be headquartered at the Philadelphia Union's stadium in Chester. With training sites spanning from South Jersey to the Philadelphia suburbs, the region is becoming a true hub for World Cup action.
Fans won't have to travel far to catch the matches themselves. The Linc in Philadelphia is set to host six games, including a thrilling June 14th clash between Ivory Coast and Ecuador, followed by a June 19th showdown between Brazil and Haiti. Whether you're tracking your favorite team's practice sessions or gearing up for match day, this is the perfect time to stock up on your national team gear and show your support from the stands.
