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The basics:

• Morocco to base at The Pingry School for World Cup prep
• Gov. Sherrill, Moroccan Ambassador Amrani made announcement in Basking Ridge
• School previously hosted 1994 World Cup training

Gov. Mikie Sherrill announced May 5 that Morocco will base its World Cup preparations at The Pingry School. The residency adds to New Jersey’s growing role as a hub for the FIFA World Cup 2026.

The announcement came in Basking Ridge alongside Moroccan Ambassador Youssef Amrani and New York New Jersey Host Committee CEO Alex Lasry. It arrives as the state continues to solidify its lineup of international teams.

Brazil will establish a base in Morris Township at the Columbia Park Training Center (the RWJBarnabas Health Red Bulls Performance Center). Meanwhile, Senegal will operate out of Rutgers University.

The New York Times confirmed earlier Tuesday Morocco and Haiti as the latest teams to finalize plans in the region. Stockton University is expected to host Haiti.

Together, the four nations underscore New Jersey’s status as one of the most in-demand World Cup base camp destinations in North America.

‘Home away from home’

Sherrill said New Jersey is thrilled to welcome Morocco and the rest of the world for the World Cup. She noted New Jersey is home to almost 10,000 residents of Moroccan descent.

“We are especially honored that Team Morocco has decided to make our state its home away from home this summer,” said Sherrill. “It is a true testament to New Jersey’s exciting role at the center of the World Cup. We look forward to showcasing New Jersey on the global stage this summer and creating memories that will last a lifetime for our residents and visitors.”

“It was a distinct honor and great pleasure to meet Gov. Sherrill today. We had very interesting and fruitful exchanges at the heart of Morocco’s officially announced future team base in New Jersey, The Pingry School,” said Amrani. “My deepest gratitude goes to the State of New Jersey and The Pingry School for their exceptional hospitality.

Brazil’s base

See the brand-new RWJBarnabas Health Red Bulls Performance Center in photos here.

“Football possesses a unique power to unite nations, and we look forward to fostering enduring bonds throughout this journey,” Amrani added.

The Pingry School itself has a history with the tournament. It previously served as a training site during the 1994 FIFA World Cup. The Miller Bugliari ’52 World Cup Field has also hosted elite clubs. It recently upgraded with international-standard pitches and modern training amenities.

Morocco will face Brazil at MetLife Stadium June 13. The game is expected to set up one of the marquee group stage matchups. It will mark the first of eight matches at the stadium that will also included the World Cup final — further cementing New Jersey’s central role in the global event.