2026 World Cup stadium set to host England and final officially changes name ahead of the tournament

One of the most recognisable stadium names in American sport is disappearing ahead of this summer’s World Cup.

The change has already begun outside the venue that will host the final of the 2026 World Cup.

Why has MetLife Stadium been rebranded for the 2026 World Cup?

MetLife Stadium has officially been renamed “New York New Jersey Stadium” for the duration of the competition.

Workers have begun covering up the MetLife branding outside the venue in East Rutherford, with new signs already in place ahead of next summer.

The temporary switch is required under FIFA rules, which prevent stadiums from using corporate-sponsored names during the tournament unless they are official FIFA partners.

As a result, MetLife Stadium joins a long list of venues being rebranded, with names such as “Dallas Stadium” replacing AT&T Stadium.

The East Rutherford venue will host eight matches in total, including England’s group-stage game against Panama and the World Cup final on July 19.

FGG says: It always feels strange but this happens every World Cup

Fans are used to knowing it as MetLife Stadium, so seeing the signs disappear is a little jarring.

But FIFA have followed this approach for years to protect their own sponsors and branding.

It may only be temporary, but it is another reminder that the tournament is getting closer, and that the stadium already looks very different ahead of hosting some of the biggest matches in football.