New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani announces free World Cup fan zone at Queens US Open venue

Authorities indicated that the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center should attract up to 10,000 supporters simultaneously from June 11 to 27, alongside further locations intended for Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Staten Island.

"Originally, these gatherings were not meant to be without charge, yet football is a sport for everyone worldwide," stated Mamdani. "We have jointly resolved to enable supporters to view the matches communally at no expense whatsoever."

The fan village in Manhattan is scheduled for Rockefeller Center between July 6 and 19, featuring briefer occasions at the Bronx Terminal Market and Staten Island University Hospital Community Park.

Brooklyn Bridge Park is set to run one of the extended fan zones from June 13 until July 19.

Mamdani presented the project as an element of a larger push to prevent local enthusiasts from being sidelined by costs, facing growing backlash from supporter organisations and politicians who caution that escalating ticket fees might bar everyday fans.

"Football emerged from working class roots," he remarked. "The current ticket rates are beyond the reach of most ordinary workers."

Authorities noted that the fan zones will offer live broadcasts of games, catering stalls, and cultural events, with extra supporter engagements and neighbourhood gatherings slated for revelation shortly.

Anticipated broader regional effects

New York Governor Kathy Hochul mentioned that the surrounding area anticipates over one million guests and an economic boost nearing 3.3 billion dollars.

She further revealed supporting measures such as prolonged pub opening times, authorisations for outside viewing parties, and events across the state for watching.

The state plans a 5 million dollar “New York Kicks” initiative to fund young football venues, plus a 500,000 dollar grant system for community World Cup linked activities.

Planners also emphasised enduring commitments connected to the event, encompassing improvements at sites like Staten Island University Hospital Community Park.

When questioned on safety, Mamdani explained that arrangements are being aligned with law enforcement and various bodies, recognising increased worries after lately political unrest nationwide.

"These occasions allow New York residents to rejoice securely," he affirmed. "We trust our capacity to protect attendees."

The New York-New Jersey area will stage eight fixtures, encompassing the concluding match on July 19. The competition commences on June 11 throughout the United States, Mexico, and Canada.