New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy criticizes FIFA and World Cup organizers over plans tied to the 2026 World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford. Multiple reports say the state governor calls the approach a “cash grab,” reacting to information that World Cup organizers are attempting to sell a package of MetLife Stadium “grass” as a fan experience.
The coverage describes the proposed sale as involving $11 million worth of stadium turf to fans. The criticism is reported in the context of the final scheduled for Sunday, featuring Argentina and Spain at the 80,000-seat stadium near New York City.
The reports do not indicate agreement on the substance or legality of the deal, but they frame the governor’s reaction as political opposition to how the event is being monetized. Organizers’ rationale is not detailed in the provided accounts. Overall, the story centers on state-level criticism of FIFA and event officials ahead of the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium.
