Official Site of The State of New Jersey

BASKING RIDGE – Governor Mikie Sherrill today joined Moroccan Ambassador to the United States Youssef Amrani and FIFA World Cup 2026™ NYNJ Host Committee CEO Alex Lasry to announce that Morocco will base its tournament preparations at The Pingry School in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, for the duration of the FIFA World Cup 2026™.

“New Jersey is thrilled to welcome Morocco – and the rest of the world – to our state for the FIFA World Cup 2026™. New Jersey is home to almost 10,000 residents of Moroccan descent, so we are especially honored that Team Morocco has decided to make our state its home away from home this summer. It is a true testament to New Jersey's exciting role at the center of the World Cup,” said Governor Sherrill. “We look forward to showcasing New Jersey on the global stage this summer and creating memories that will last a lifetime for our residents and visitors.”

“It was a distinct honor and great pleasure to meet Governor Sherrill today. We had very interesting and fruitful exchanges at the heart of Morocco’s officially announced future team base in New Jersey, The Pingry School,” said Ambassador Amrani. “My deepest gratitude goes to the State of New Jersey and The Pingry School for their exceptional hospitality. Football possesses a unique power to unite nations, and we look forward to fostering enduring bonds throughout this journey.”

Morocco will face Brazil at MetLife Stadium on June 13, bringing one of the tournament’s marquee Group Stage matchups to the region.

The Pingry School also served as a training site during the 1994 FIFA World Cup, reinforcing the region’s longstanding role in supporting teams competing on the world stage. The Miller Bugliari ’52 World Cup Field, home of Pingry Football, has long served as a training venue for top clubs and was renovated in 2025. It now features two international-standard grass pitches, modern amenities, and an athletics center designed for elite preparation.

In addition to Morocco, three other national teams will be setting up camp in New Jersey, bringing the excitement of the World Cup to communities across the state. These teams, which will be announced soon, are set to make Columbia Park Training Facility in Morris Township, New Jersey; Stockton University in Galloway, New Jersey; and Rutgers University in Piscataway, New Jersey, their base of operations throughout the tournament.