New York New Jersey Host Committee Gears Up for FIFA World Cup 2026™: First Lady Tammy Murphy and Alex Lasry Appointed to Lead

The New York New Jersey (NYNJ) Host Committee, which is overseeing the local organization of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final and seven additional matches in the region, is stepping up its planning and coordination efforts by bolstering its leadership team. New Jersey’s First Lady, Tammy Murphy, has been appointed as the Chair of the Board of Directors, while Alex Lasry will take on the role of Chief Executive Officer, managing the committee’s daily operations.

“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 incoming NYNJ Host Committee Chair Tammy 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. 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.”

“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 incoming NYNJ Host Committee CEO Alex Lasry. “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.”

As Chair of the Board, Tammy Murphy will guide the overall planning and preparations of the NYNJ Host Committee for the FIFA World Cup 2026. She will also engage with individuals and corporations to advance the Committee’s objectives. Leveraging her extensive knowledge of the region and her enthusiasm for soccer—as the founder of the longest-operating professional women’s soccer club in the U.S. and a founding member and Chair of one of the National Women’s Soccer League’s original clubs—Murphy is set to significantly contribute to her role as Chair.

All positions on the Board, including that of Chair, are volunteer roles. The Board comprises notable figures such as:

Fred Dixon, President & CEO, Brand USA
Joseph Kelley, Partner, CHA Partners
Wesley Mathews, President and CEO, Choose New Jersey, Inc.
Zakiya Smith Ellis, Principal, EducationCounsel

As the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer, Alex Lasry will navigate the Host Committee from planning to execution. His background includes roles such as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Travel & Tourism at the U.S. Department of Commerce from January 2023 to January 2025, and a senior executive position with the Milwaukee Bucks. Born and raised in New York City, Lasry’s education from the University of Pennsylvania and an MBA from NYU’s Stern School of Business, coupled with his diverse experience in business, sports, government, fundraising, travel, tourism, and community-building, equip him well for his new role.

Co-Host City Managers Lauren LaRusso and Bruce Revman have been pivotal in coordinating the region for these extensive planning efforts, ensuring the success of the largest sporting event in the world. Moving forward, Lasry, LaRusso, Revman, and the entire leadership team will focus on engaging the robust business community in the region to maximize the economic and social benefits of hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026. The matches in the region are expected to generate over $2 billion in economic impact and support over 14,000 jobs.

Since 2017, New York and New Jersey have collaborated to plan and coordinate the region’s involvement in hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026 matches, including securing the prestigious Final match. This partnership ensures shared responsibility for the region’s eight matches, fan festivals, practice facilities, hotels, transportation, public safety, and other essential infrastructure. This strategic collaboration aims to distribute the economic and community benefits of this historic event throughout the NYNJ region. Established officially in 2023, the Host Committee continues to work closely with city and state stakeholders and FIFA to deliver a memorable, inclusive, and impactful World Cup experience for fans, athletes, partners, and local communities.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to be the largest sporting event in history, with three host countries, 16 host cities, 48 teams, and 104 matches, bringing an entire continent together under a new tournament format. The grand finale will take place at the New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium) on July 19, 2026, featuring unparalleled fan experiences across the NYNJ region.

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