Res 0655-2026

Res. No. 655 By Council Members Thomas-Henry, Maloney, Hanif and Brewer Resolution calling on FIFA to pay New York City the $1 million “legacy contribution” promised for hosting the 2026 World Cup Whereas, the 2026 FIFA World Cup soccer tournament was the most profitable sporting event in world history, generating an estimated $15 billion in revenue; and Whereas, The New York City area functioned as one of the largest of the tournament’s host cities for eight World Cup games at Met Life stadium; and Whereas, New York City spent an estimated $90 million to prepare for hosting World Cup athletes, attendees, and officials, as well as promoting the event and organizing public watch parties; and Whereas, New York City estimated it would receive $51 million in tax revenue from the World Cup and associated tourism, $39 million less than the City spent on behalf of the event; and Whereas, FIFA reportedly promised to make a $1 million “legacy contribution” to 2026 World Cup host cities as a gesture of thanks to fund the building of soccer pitches or other social projects; and Whereas, a report in The Athletic on August 4, 2026 found that FIFA had not actually made the $1 million legacy contributions to host cities; now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the Council of the City of New York calls on FIFA to pay New York City the $1 million “legacy contribution” promised for hosting the 2026 World Cup. AY LSR #25779 8/26/2026