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As planning for the FIFA World Cup 2026 hits the home stretch, the NYNJ Host Committee announced moves Feb. 11 to bolster its leadership team.

Since 2017, New Jersey and New York have worked together to plan and coordinate the region’s role in hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026, including delivering the area’s eight matches (with the Final), fan festivals, practice facilities, hotels, transportation, public safety and other infrastructure. Officially established in 2023 to build on that foundation, the Host Committee works closely with FIFA in addition to key city, state and local stakeholders.

On Tuesday, the group named Tammy Murphy as chair of its board of directors, while Alex Lasry was tapped to serve as CEO – leading the Host Committee on a day-to-day basis.

Murphy brings extensive passion and experience to this role. The first lady founded a long-operating professional women’s soccer club (originally Jersey Sky Blue, then Sky Blue FC and now Gotham FC) that plays in the National Women’s Soccer League.

Lauren LaRusso and Bruce Revman serve as the co-host city managers. The pair has been instrumental in planning efforts, with a keen focus on engaging the region’s business community to ensure that businesses and individuals across the region share the benefits of the largest sporting event in history.

FIFA World Cup 2026 expects to generate over $2 billion in economic impact as well as support over 14,000 jobs.

“This World Cup is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for our region to define itself to the world and will be an incredible economic engine for our entire region, generating over $2 billion and attracting over 1 million visitors,” said Murphy. “The biggest match of the biggest sporting event in history will be played right here in New Jersey while being viewed by billions of people across the globe.”

Other Host Committee board members include:

• Fred Dixon, president and CEO, Brand USA
• Joseph Kelley, partner, CHA Partners
• Wesley Mathews, president and CEO, Choose New Jersey
• Zakiya Smith Ellis, principal, EducationCounsel

Lasry, a former longtime executive with the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks, most recently served as the deputy assistant secretary for travel & tourism at the United States Department of Commerce. He brings extensive experience in business, sports, government, fundraising, travel, tourism and community-building. The Host Committee highlighted these skills as essential to this next phase of its work — transitioning from planning to execution mode.

“With less than 500 days until the first match of the tournament, the urgency and excitement are palpable here in the NYNJ region and around the world,” said Lasry.

As preparations ramp up, Murphy and Lasry commended the Host Committee for the work done so far to bring the planning and coordination to this point.

“I am so grateful for the amazing team – led by Lauren LaRusso and Bruce Revman – that made it possible for our region to have this incredible opportunity and so excited to add Alex Lasry to the team as we move rapidly toward 2026,” said Murphy.

“I am so impressed by the work that has already been done to prepare for this momentous occasion, and I look forward to working with our dedicated team and our partners in public safety, hospitality, public transportation, tourism, and more to ensure the FIFA World Cup 2026 experience is remarkable for all residents of and visitors to this region,” said Lasry.

The tournament culminates with the Final at New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium’s alter ego during the World Cup) July 19, 2026.