England fans heading to New York told 2026 World Cup fan zone isn’t open yet despite being advertised

England supporters travelling to New York for the 2026 World Cup have been dealt an unexpected blow after it emerged FIFA's much-publicised fan site at Rockefeller Center will not open until the knockout stages.

The revelation has left many supporters frustrated, with reports of disappointed fans arriving in Manhattan expecting a dedicated World Cup atmosphere only to discover the official fan zone remains closed.

Rockefeller Center fan zone won't open until knockout stages

The issue was highlighted by journalist Ed Aarons, who reported that numerous Mexico supporters had been left disappointed after heading to Rockefeller Center looking for a place to watch their opening match against South Africa on Thursday.

Despite being heavily promoted as one of the tournament's flagship fan destinations, the site will not fully open until the knockout rounds.

Aarons also noted that fans currently wanting a view of the action from the FIFA-branded area can only access the nearby observation deck, with entry reportedly costing $50 (£37) plus tax.

The timing is particularly awkward given New York is expected to host huge numbers of travelling supporters throughout the group stage, including several England fans who could be based in the city during the tournament and those planning to attend the Three Lions' final group match against Panama on June 27th.

Disappointing that Fifa’s fanzone in the Rockefeller Centre isn’t opening until the knockout stages despite being advertised. Lots of disappointed Mexican fans looking for somewhere to watch. It’s only $50 plus tax to watch from Visa sponsored observation deck

— Ed Aarons (@ed_aarons) June 11, 2026

FGG says: Fans at the 2026 World Cup deserve better clarity

It's understandable why supporters are frustrated.

When fans travel thousands of miles for a World Cup, many expect official fan zones to be operating from day one rather than halfway through the tournament.

The good news for England supporters is that there are still alternatives.

Those looking for a large-screen viewing experience can head to Louis Armstrong Stadium in Queens or Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey, both of which are hosting World Cup watch events.

FIFA could have avoided plenty of confusion by being far clearer about exactly when its flagship New York fan zone would actually be open.